RESTRICTED
LADY YOUNG'S SPEECH IN LORDS DEBATE ON LOYAL ADDRESS:
7 NOVEMBER
FIRST DRAFT
1.
My Lords, our debate today is about foreign affairs
and defence. In both areas there is a need for two
determination to pursue our objectives, and
qualities:
The
capacity to react to changing circumstances.
Government's record over the last 18 months shows both
these qualities. I shall concentrate on my own sphere
of responsibility: the Noble Lord, Lord Trefgarne will
wind up the debate.
2. I see some square eyes on both sides of the House,
which suggest that Noble Lords spent part of last night
or this morning watching the progress of the American
elections.
We do not yet have full results, but it is
clear that President Reagan has been re-elected [by an
overwhelming majority). I congratulate him warmly.
As
is usual in America, the openness of the proceedings
was impressive, and the campaign included many vigorous
debates and speeches. We now look forward to renewing
our close relationship with President Reagan's
administration.
I have no doubt that we shall continue
the friendship which has meant so much to both peoples.
There are of course a number of difficult issues ahead.
We shall continue to express concern about the size of
RESTRICTED
1