TNAG-1324-FCO40-1736-Future-of-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-debates-1984 — Page 130

43. There already exist a number of institutions in which these subjects

can be discussed and carried further. NATO itself, has committees and

subgroups in various configurations which would allow for a strengthening

of the European dimension. Political cooperation among the Ten could be

extended into the security field, but some member states may be reluctant

to agree. It is therefore natural that the idea of revitalising the

Western European Union should be floated.

44. The Government are not wedded to any particular new forum. None

responds completely to all the difficulties. And we must not fall into the

The best way forward may be to

trap of getting hung up on institutions.

start by defining the jobs to be done, and then to identify the institution

or institutions best fitted to tackle them. This needs to be done with

great care and in close consultation with the United States. I am sure

that if we keep practical objectives in mind we shall have the active

support of the United States and that the Atlantic Alliance will be

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