and START talks in Geneva has created new problems between East and West.
The Labour Party on full-lock can be a wonder to behold. It could
certainly beat a London taxi. But they deserve credit for consistency on
arms control. When the Russians absented themselves from Geneva, it was
still the West that was to blame in Labour eyes. Western governments had
apparently driven the Russians from the table! But the empty Soviet chair
has not changed the basic needs of both East and West. Fair and verifiable
arms control agreements are still needed. So too are sensible arrangements
for trade. And I hope the Russians see as much interest as we do in a
general reduction in tension.
18. We in the West have shown that we are ready to broaden the East/West
dialogue and give it more substance. One of the lessons of the last few
chilly years
in January
- and I emphasised this in my speech at the opening of the CDE
is that arms control cannot bear the full weight of East/West
relations. The goal from wider contacts must be better mutual
understanding. And the ball is still a long way from the net.
9