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FOREIGN AND DEFENCE DEBATE, HOUSE OF LORDS, 23 NOVEMBER
DRAFT OPENING SPEECH FOR LORD GLENARTHUR
My Lords, in opening this debate I should perhaps begin by saying that I shall endeavour to concentrate on foreign policy questions
That is the without trespassing too far into the area of defence.
preserve of my noble friend Lord Trefgarne, who will speak in reply.
Naturally the areas of Foreign and Defence policy cannot be treated wholly in isolation from one another. Foreign policy has as its objective the preservation of a country's security as much as does defence policy. It achieves its objective by seeking to shape the international climate in which decisions on defence matters have to be taken. It is strengthened in pursuit of that objective when it is seen to be supported by a resolute and consistent attitude on
defence issues.
Foreign policy is however further concerned with the strengthening of a country's economic security as well as its physical security. With the protection and advancement of its prosperity.
- A country's foreign policy is exercised against the background of a
complex and constantly evolving international climate, which presents risks as well as opportunities. The policy must be prudent enough to avoid the risks and confident enough to take the opportunities. Above all, it must be a policy of active engagement. International relations, like time, waits for no man.
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The
It is over a year since we last had a debate of this kind. intervening period has been one of exceptional activity and The INF interest. Two successful Soviet-American summits. agreement the first to eliminate an entire class of nuclear weapons. The commencement of the withdrawal of Soviet occupying
Most forces from Afghanistan. A ceasefire in the Iran/Iraq war. recently, the successful conclusion of the four-power talks on Namibia and the Cuban troop presence in Angola.
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