The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which was signed on 1 July 1968 in London, Moscow and Washington and came into force on 5 March 1970, is based on three pillars: non-proliferation, disarmament and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. It prohibits the five nuclear-weapon states (NWS) — those who have exploded a nuclear device prior to 1 January 1967 (the United States, the USSR, the United Kingdom, China and France) — from delivering material or intelligence to non-nuclear weapon states (NNWS). The non-nuclear weapon states undertake not to manufacture or seek to acquire nuclear weapons. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is to verify that each state party to the treaty honours its commitments.

On 1 July 1968, Mikhail Nikolayevich Smirnovsky, Soviet Ambassador to the United Kingdom, signs the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). Under this multilateral treaty, the five nuclear weapon states — the United States, USSR, United Kingdom, China and France — agree not to transfer military nuclear technology to other states. On 5 March 1970, after ratification by the depositary governments, the treaty comes into force for 25 years. On 11 May 1995, following a conference at the United Nations Headquarters in New York that lasts for almost a month, the representatives of more than 180 countries decide that the NTP should continue in force indefinitely.

On 20 April 1970, the US and Soviet delegations meet at Belvedere Palace in Vienna for negotiations on the SALT I agreement on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.

On 30 September 1971, in Washington, the United States and the Soviet Union sign an agreement in an effort to reduce the risk of outbreak of nuclear war.

On 26 May 1972, in Moscow, the US President, Richard Nixon, and his Soviet counterpart, Leonid Brezhnev, sign an ABM agreement limiting anti-ballistic defense missiles with nuclear warheads.

On 22 June 1973, in Washington, US President Richard Nixon and his Soviet counterpart Leonid Brezhnev sign an agreement on the prevention of nuclear war.

On 1 August 1975, in Helsinki, the Heads of State or Government of the 35 countries participating in the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) sign the Final Act, which, in particular, endorses the inviolability of existing frontiers, promotes economic cooperation and encourages the free movement of ideas and people.

On 1 August 1975, in Helsinki, the Heads of State or Government of the 35 countries participating in the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) sign the Final Act, which, in particular, endorses the inviolability of existing frontiers, promotes economic cooperation and encourages the free movement of ideas and people.

On 18 June 1979, US President, Jimmy Carter, and Leonid Brejnev, First Secretary of the Soviet Communist Party, sign the SALT I Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty.

On 18 June 1979, US President Jimmy Carter and Leonid Brezhnev, First Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, sign the SALT II Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty in Vienna.

On 18 June 1979 in Vienna, Austria, US President Jimmy Carter (on the left) and Leonid Brezhnev (on the right), First Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, shake hands after signing the SALT II Treaty for the limitation of strategic weapons.

On 23 February 1957, in preparation for the forthcoming Western European Union (WEU) Ministerial Meeting, due to be held on 26–27 February in London, the Foreign Office prepares a list of briefs for the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Selwyn Lloyd. The note indicates that there should be substantive discussion on Item III (Disarmament) and describes the main topics that will be on the order of business. The focus is on the negotiations held in the United Nations Disarmament Sub-Committee and the position that the United Kingdom should adopt.

On 26 February 1957, the Council of Western European Union (WEU) meets in London under the chairmanship of Selwyn Lloyd, United Kingdom Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. In his opening speech, Selwyn Lloyd outlines the recent developments in the United Nations’ disarmament discussions and emphasises that the Anglo-French plan gives the best outline yet conceived for comprehensive disarmament, both conventional and nuclear. Views should be exchanged on the line to be taken by the WEU countries represented at the UN Disarmament Sub-Committee negotiations.

On 26 February 1957, the Council of Ministers of Western European Union (WEU) meets in London. The meeting is chaired by Selwyn Lloyd, British Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. The agenda includes the latest developments in the United Nations talks on disarmament, in which some of the WEU Member States are taking part. The photo shows Peter Fraser, Assistant to the WEU Secretary-General, Louis Goffin, WEU Secretary-General, Selwyn Lloyd, British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, and Lord Hood, British diplomat and representative on the WEU Council.

In July 1957, Jean Chauvel, French Ambassador to London, speculates on the British position on disarmament. He emphasises that the British Government is firmly attached to a defence based on the use of nuclear weapons and the maintenance of total freedom in this area. According to Jean Chauvel, the United Kingdom is therefore trying to postpone the date for an effective halt to nuclear production for as long as possible and remains sceptical of any agreement that would prevent it from acquiring nuclear capabilities. Nevertheless, the British position is not fundamentally different from the French position on arms reduction or conventional disarmament controls.

On 9 June 1961, the British daily newspaper The Guardian comments on the address given to the Assembly of Western European Union (WEU) by Harold Watkinson, British Minister of Defence, concerning the United Kingdom’s defence policy and the use of nuclear weapons. The journalist particularly focuses on the complex question of nuclear disarmament.

On 6 July 1961, French Foreign Minister Maurice Couve de Murville sets out the French position on disarmament in a telegram to Hervé Alphand, French Ambassador to Washington. According to the French Foreign Minister, the Western powers should draw up a series of disarmament measures that correspond to the current state of weapons and strategic thinking. The main focus should be on an approach to nuclear disarmament that includes measures on new nuclear weapons carrier vehicles. The French Government also advocates the idea of gradual disarmament in successive stages and suggests that the Western powers should promptly address any specific problems. On the matter of nuclear weapons, Maurice Couve de Murville emphasises that France cannot contemplate a ban on nuclear testing without taking decisive steps to convert existing stocks for peaceful purposes. The government is not in favour of the US ‘no first use’ proposal — a pledge not to use nuclear weapons unless first attacked — as it would affect Western strategy.

On 21 March 1963, the Directorate for Political Affairs in the French Foreign Ministry outlines the main thrust of France’s position on disarmament. It notes that France is in favour of general, progressive and controlled disarmament so that the balance of forces will not be weakened. The government emphasises nuclear disarmament and suggests that this could be achieved by eliminating carrier vehicles. However, France maintains that the cessation of nuclear tests for military purposes does not really constitute a disarmament measure since it does not entail reductions in stockpiles of bombs and fissile material. Disarmament should be controlled by an impartial international organisation which has the resources required for its investigations.

At the 234th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 25 and 26 October 1963 in The Hague, the delegations discuss the development of East–West relations. The British Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Richard Austen Butler, emphasises that relations have improved, but he does not believe that there has been a fundamental change in the basic aims of Soviet foreign policy. Although the United Kingdom is determined to defend the Western position in Berlin, he calls for ongoing dialogue with the Soviet Union with a view to achieving real disarmament. The position of French Foreign Minister Maurice Couve de Murville differs from the UK position with respect to the method that should be used to reach agreements with the Soviets. Couve de Murville believes that détente depends entirely on the USSR, the originator of the Cold War. This is why the French Government has not taken part in the recent East–West negotiations. He also stresses that he has every confidence in his allies not to arrive at any arrangement which would harm Western interests.

On 25 and 26 October 1963, the Council of Ministers of Western European Union (WEU) meets in The Hague, in the Netherlands. The delegations of the WEU Member States discuss the development of East–West relations and particularly mention the dialogue between Western countries and the Soviet Union on disarmament.

At the 243rd meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 23 and 24 January 1964 in London, the delegations discuss the situation of East–West relations. British Foreign Secretary Richard Austen Butler shares the concerns of Federal Foreign Minister Gerhard Schröder over the change in the USSR’s tactics. The two believe that internal difficulties will cause the Soviets to review their strategy, although the aims of communism will remain essentially the same. With regard to disarmament, the two governments affirm that they are keen to support any efforts to reach an agreement on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, but not at the expense of Western security, which is based on nuclear dissuasion. French Foreign Minister Maurice Couve de Murville agrees with the British and German analysis but adds that the US proposals at the disarmament conference should in no way lead to neutrality in Germany or in Central Europe.

On 23 and 24 January 1964, the Council of Ministers of Western European Union (WEU) meets for a further working session in London. Richard Austen Butler, the British Foreign Secretary, chairs the meeting. On the left of the photo, WEU Secretary-General Maurice Iweins d’Eeckhoutte.

The French delegation at the meeting of the Council of Ministers of Western European Union (WEU) in London on 23 January 1964. From left to right: Geoffroy Chodron de Courcel, French Ambassador to London since 16 March 1962, and Maurice Couve de Murville, French Foreign Minister.

The German delegation at the 243rd meeting of the Council of Ministers of Western European Union (WEU) in London on 23 January 1964. At the meeting, Federal Foreign Minister Gerhard Schröder (centre) expresses the concerns of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) regarding the USSR’s foreign policy and reaffirms his support for the efforts to reach an agreement on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.

At the 250th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 16 April 1964 in Brussels, the delegations discuss the development of East–West relations. British Foreign Secretary Richard Austen Butler and his French counterpart Michel Habib-Deloncle stress the fact that the USSR is currently preoccupied with internal problems and the Sino-Soviet dispute, which is not just affecting the Soviet satellite countries but the global communist movement as a whole. France and the United Kingdom are prepared to maintain a dialogue with the USSR but they emphasise the fact that Western Europe must remain vigilant towards the Soviet Union. On the matter of disarmament, the Soviet Union is not contributing any constructive ideas and it does not seem to be prepared to examine the substance of the issue of arms control.

At the 256th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 16 and 17 July 1964 in Paris, the delegations discuss the development of East–West relations and particularly analyse the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between the Soviet Union and the German Democratic Republic (GDR), signed on 12 June 1964. The British Foreign Secretary, Richard Austen Butler, and the French Foreign Minister, Maurice Couve de Murville, note that the USSR is currently preoccupied with internal problems, including its conflict with China and the difficult relations with some satellite countries in Eastern Europe, which are calling for greater independence. The French delegate and his English counterpart underline that the Western countries should take advantage of this situation, for example by developing relations with the countries of Eastern Europe. Concerning the conference on disarmament, Richard Austen Butler states that he believes it is possible to reach agreement with the USSR on nuclear non-proliferation, despite the establishment of a multilateral nuclear force. On this matter, the French minister points out that his government, unclear as to the purpose of the operation, is not taking part in discussions on the subject and that the USSR is opposed to the establishment of such a force.

At the 276th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 29 and 30 June 1965 in Luxembourg, the delegations discuss East–West relations, particularly the situation in the countries of Eastern Europe. British Foreign Secretary Michael Stewart and his French counterpart Michel Habib-Deloncle discuss the deterioration in relations with the Soviet Union after Nikita Khrushchev’s fall from power and offer a detailed analysis of the USSR’s position in the Vietnam conflict, for which they believe that a conference with the powers concerned should be convened as a matter of urgency. The French representative also emphasises the positive development in Soviet relations with the Third World, particularly with Algeria and the United Arab Republic. With regard to disarmament and European security, the hardening of the USSR’s attitude to the West is making progress in these areas difficult. But the Western countries should take advantage of the fact that some communist countries in Eastern Europe are seeking independence and establish bilateral relations with these countries.

At the 281st meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 4 November 1965 in The Hague, the delegations discuss the development of East–West relations. British Foreign Secretary Michael Stewart states that it is difficult to assess the real intentions of the countries of Eastern Europe. With regard to the Soviet Union, he speaks about the USSR’s domestic problems, including economic and agricultural difficulties and the conflict with China. He feels that there is a real desire on the part of the countries of Eastern Europe to enter into talks with the West. But French State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Michel Habib-Deloncle points out that he can see no development in the policy adopted by the countries of Eastern Europe towards Germany. He also emphasises that there has been no progress in the talks on disarmament.

On 16 February 1966, a note from the French Foreign Ministry outlines France’s position on the question of non-dissemination of nuclear weapons. The government believes that agreements aiming to ban dissemination do not address the crux of the issue, namely genuine disarmament.

At the 289th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 15 and 16 March 1966 in London and chaired by British Foreign Secretary Michael Stewart, the delegations discuss East–West relations. Michael Stewart notes that no progress has been made in recent months in the discussions on nuclear non-proliferation and disarmament, but the USSR has reactivated the Geneva Conference, which had ground to a halt. On the German question, he emphasises that the Western powers should take any available opportunity to make it clear that they do not consider the status quo in Germany as a desirable long-term solution. According to the British Government, the Western powers should maintain Western defences in full working order and avoid any provocative behaviour towards the Soviet Union.

At the 302nd meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 29 and 30 September 1966 in Paris and chaired by French State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Jean de Broglie, the delegations discuss East–West relations, particularly the efforts made by their governments to develop bilateral relations with the countries of Eastern Europe. British representative George Thomson raises the question of a possible withdrawal of British troops stationed in Germany because of the costs involved in maintaining them there, but assures those present that these forces would continue to be available to NATO. Concerning relations with the countries of Eastern Europe, George Thomson and Jean de Broglie have identified new prospects and a number of signs that might be a guide to future developments.

On 19 September 1967, French Foreign Minister Maurice Couve de Murville sends a telegram to Jean-Marc Boegner, French Permanent Representative to the European Communities (EC), in which he sets out France’s position on the draft treaty on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons within a Community framework. Maurice Couve de Murville explains that France does not intend to take part in the discussions on the treaty provisions because it has no intention of signing the treaty. He also believes that the questions raised by the treaty fall exclusively within the jurisdiction of the EC Member States. It is therefore not for the European Commission to take sides on this matter.

On 23 September 1968, French Foreign Minister Michel Debré sends a letter to France’s diplomatic representatives in which he sets out France’s position on the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which was opened for signature on 1 July 1968. Michel Debré notes that his government has not signed the treaty because it does not call existing nuclear arsenals into question. France believes that all existing nuclear weapons and the vehicles that transport them should be eliminated.

In preparation for the forthcoming meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), the Directorate for Political Affairs in the French Foreign Ministry draws up a note in which it sets out France’s position on disarmament. The ministry outlines the reasons why France did not sign the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) on 1 July 1968. The country believes that this treaty consolidates the monopolies held by nuclear powers and does not lay the foundations for genuine disarmament. With regard to the negotiations on the limitation of nuclear weapons, the ministry states that they will condemn any nuclear forces currently under creation, without leading to a reduction in existing nuclear arsenals. France is also hostile to the conclusion of agreements on the non-use of nuclear weapons and the creation of denuclearised zones. It believes that such commitments do not include any real guarantees and are therefore unable to ensure security. The only way of reducing the risk is to destroy all nuclear weapons.

In 1968, the French Foreign Ministry draws up speaking notes for the forthcoming ministerial meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU) on issues related to disarmament. In the light of the invasion of Czechoslovakia by troops from the Member States of the Warsaw Pact during the night of 20 to 21 August 1968, the Ministry focuses on questions associated with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) of 1 July 1968. France, which did not sign the NPT, believes that the treaty consolidates the monopolies held by nuclear powers and does not lay the foundations for genuine disarmament.

At the 354th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 21 and 22 October 1968 in Rome, the delegations discuss East–West relations and particularly the consequences for Europe of the Soviet military intervention in Czechoslovakia. French State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Jean de Lipkowski strongly condemns Moscow’s actions and the entry of troops from the Warsaw Pact member states into Czechoslovakia during the night of 20 to 21 August 1968. But he notes that, in the interests of Europe and of global peace, the only possible policy remains one of détente. The British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Michael Stewart, calls for a consolidation of Western defence and announces Britain’s intention to improve the quality of its contribution to the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO).

On 3 November 1970, at the joint meeting between the Council of Western European Union (WEU) and the Assembly Committee on Defence Questions and Armaments, the delegations discuss a reply given by the Council to a question on the strategic arms limitation talks. While the Council is not contemplating French and British participation in the negotiations on strategic arms limitation, which are being held between the United States and the Soviet Union, British and French MPs James Scott and André Beauguitte believe that their countries should take part in the SALT talks once they begin to focus on reducing ceilings of strategic offensive nuclear weapons.

As debates on foreign policy are held in the French National Assembly on 9 June 1971, French Foreign Minister Maurice Schumann replies to questions on disarmament. He emphasises that France is in favour of a disarmament system which, under effective international control, should lead to the cessation of arms production and the destruction of existing stockpiles. With regard to the plan to reduce military forces in Central Europe, Maurice Schumann outlines the reasons why France is opposed to such a project. The French Government believes that, as long as détente has not been consolidated, the reduction of forces represents a danger for European security.

On 29 June 1971, a note from the Directorate for Political Affairs in the French Foreign Ministry examines the question of mutual and balanced force reductions in Central Europe and explains in detail why France is opposed to this plan. As long as détente in Europe has not been consolidated, the French Government sees the demilitarisation of a zone between East and West as a potential source of conflict. Such an enterprise would inevitably lead to a reduction in the military potential of the European states, while the forces of the USSR and the United States would simply be moved from one place to another, thereby widening the gap between Europe and the two superpowers and lessening Europe’s chances of becoming truly independent in the future.

At the 423rd meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 1 July 1971 in London and chaired by the British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Sir Alec Douglas-Home, the delegations discuss the development of East–West relations. On the question of mutual balanced force reductions in Central Europe, Jean de Lipkowski, State Secretary to the French Foreign Minister, gives a detailed explanation of the reasons why France is opposed to such a plan. As long as détente in Europe has not been consolidated, the French Government sees the demilitarisation of a zone between East and West as a potential source of conflict. It believes that such an enterprise would inevitably lead to a reduction in the military potential of the European states, while the forces of the USSR and the United States would simply be moved from one place to another, thereby widening the gap between Europe and the two superpowers and lessening Europe’s chances of becoming truly independent one day. Sir Alec Douglas-Home thinks that it would be wise for the Western countries to probe Soviet intentions before establishing their position. But he notes that French policy on this question has differed from that of the rest of the allies for some time.

At the 446th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 11 September 1972 in Rome, the delegations discuss East–West relations, and particularly bilateral contacts with the countries of Eastern Europe. The French Foreign Minister, Maurice Schumann, and the British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Sir Alec Douglas-Home, particularly raise the question of Mutual and Balanced Force Reductions in Central Europe (MBFR), the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) and the Soviet attitude to Vietnam and the Middle East. On the matter of Germany, Sir Alec Douglas-Home states that the United States, France and the United Kingdom have agreed to reaffirm their rights and responsibilities for the country as a whole. He also affirms that the Western Allies will continue to defend their position in the face of efforts from the Eastern bloc to enhance the status of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) in international organisations.

At the 453rd meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 15 February 1973 in Luxembourg, the delegations discuss the development of East–West relations. André Bettencourt, French Minister attached to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, raises subjects including the latest meeting between Georges Pompidou and Leonid Brezhnev, at which the leaders had discussed the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) and the negotiations on Mutual and Balanced Force Reductions in Central Europe (MBFR). While the Soviet Union had pressed for French participation in the MBFR negotiations, France had reaffirmed its position, namely opposition to the bloc-to-bloc system and to increased military imbalance in Central Europe, and President Pompidou had merely stated that there would be other opportunities for further discussion on the matter of MBFR. The British Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Anthony Royle, notes that preparations for the CSCE are going very well for the West and emphasises the importance of solidarity between the Western participants in the forthcoming MBFR negotiations.

On 20 September 1973, the British delegation to the Council of Western European Union (WEU) proposes amendments to the draft reply (WPM(73)24) to Recommendation 238 of the WEU Assembly on European security — relations with the countries of Eastern Europe. The British emphasise that the development of genuine détente between East and West, which has become a real possibility since the opening of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE), does not reduce the need to maintain an adequate defence capability. They stress Europe’s contribution to Western defence and mention the Standing Armaments Committee (SAC), the Eurogroup, the European Defence Improvement Programme (EDIP) and the Standing Naval Force Channel. The recommendation emphasises that the United States intends to maintain and improve its forces in Europe. On the matter of the negotiations on mutual and balanced force reductions (MBFR) in Europe, the British delegation notes that the aim of these negotiations is to secure, step by step, practical arrangements which ensure undiminished security at a lower level of forces. There can therefore be no question of creating a neutral zone. With regard to the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT), the WEU Member States must ensure that the negotiations do not jeopardise their security or their interests.

On 19 September 1973, the French delegation to the Council of Western European Union (WEU) proposes amendments to the draft reply (WPM(73)24) to Recommendation 238 of the WEU Assembly on European security — relations with the countries of Eastern Europe. The French emphasise that détente between East and West, which has become a reality since the opening of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE), requires the maintenance of an adequate defence capability. They stress Europe’s contribution to Western defence and mention the Standing Armaments Committee (SAC), the European Defence Improvement Programme (EDIP) and the Standing Naval Force Channel in connection with the Eurogroup. On the matter of the negotiations on mutual and balanced force reductions (MBFR) in Europe, the French delegation notes that the aim of these negotiations is to secure, step by step, practical arrangements which ensure undiminished security in central Europe at a lower level of forces. Precautions must be taken, however, to ensure that the special status of the zone to which the resolutions apply does not foreshadow the establishment of a neutral zone. As regards the SALT (Strategic Arms Limitation Talks) negotiations, the French delegation emphasises that the WEU Member States are informed of the progress of the negotiations by the United States in the North Atlantic Council. The WEU Member States are therefore able to ensure that these discussions do not jeopardise their security or their interests.

On 22 November 1973, the British daily newspaper The Guardian comments on the address given the previous day by French Foreign Minister Michel Jobert to the Assembly of Western European Union (WEU) on détente and European defence policy.

At the 495th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 20 May 1975 in London and chaired by the British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs James Callaghan, the delegations discuss East–West relations. They make a general assessment of the development of bilateral relations with the countries of Eastern Europe and review the various measures taken by their governments. In this context, Bernard Destremau, French Junior Minister to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, emphasises the importance of maintaining frequent contacts not only with the Soviet Union but with all the countries of Eastern Europe. James Callaghan states that the British Government is making the most of the general climate of détente to improve its relations with Eastern Europe. But he believes that the holding of a summit of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) in the summer will only be possible if the USSR shows some signs of more flexibility before the spring summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Moreover, he believes that the limited progress in the negotiations on Mutual and Balanced Force Reductions in Central Europe (MBFR) may be due to the fact the Warsaw Pact countries refuse to acknowledge that the main source of instability in the area is their superiority over the West in terms of tanks and manpower.

At the 524th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 26 April 1977 in Strasbourg and chaired by French State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Pierre-Christian Taittinger, the delegations discuss the development of East–West relations. British Minister of State for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Frank Ashcroft Judd assesses the development of British relations with the Soviet Union and the other countries in Eastern Europe and reviews the various actions taken by his Government since the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) in 1973. Concerning the application of the final agreement of the conference, the French and British Governments emphasise the need to implement all the provisions in the Helsinki Final Act, maintaining constant pressure on the countries of Eastern Europe, particularly with regard to compliance with the humanitarian provisions. Moreover, the French representative affirms that détente should not be limited to Europe but that it should also extend to all other continents, particularly to Africa.

On 25 January 1978, French President Valéry Giscard d’Estaing outlines France’s position on disarmament. He states that disarmament is a shared responsibility and should be carried out with the cooperation, under the control and for the benefit of all concerned. France suggests that action should be taken at global level, and also at regional level by both nuclear and non-nuclear regions. The country suggests holding a European disarmament conference for these regions.

At the 538th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 5 June 1978 in Bonn, the delegations discuss the development of East–West relations. British representative John Tomlinson and Olivier Stirn, French State Secretary to the Foreign Minister, note that bilateral relations with the countries of Eastern Europe are moving in the right direction. The French representative mentions that some progress has been made in the SALT talks but points out that the Soviet Union has also undertaken a series of actions that are likely to harm détente. The Soviets have delivered significant quantities of arms to Africa, increased their offensive military capacities directed at Europe and failed to comply with the provisions of the Helsinki Final Act in the area of human rights. Olivier Stirn nevertheless affirms that détente should remain a constant factor in Western policy.

On 18 January 1979, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates a draft reply from the WEU Council, prepared by the British delegation, to Assembly Recommendation 324 on the limitation of strategic arms. Most of the text is included in the final reply to the recommendation (C(79)54), particularly the points on the Council’s resolve to seek further improvement in East/West relations and its support for specific arms control and disarmament measures.

On 7 February 1979, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates a draft reply from the WEU Council to Assembly Recommendation 324 on the limitation of strategic arms. The document comprises the original British version plus a French amendment, which is partly included in the final reply to the recommendation (C(79)54). On the matter of the SALT (Strategic Arms Limitation Talks) negotiations, the French delegation emphasises that the United States has kept the North Atlantic Council informed of progress throughout the negotiations, especially on issues of particular interest to the WEU member governments.

On 29 March 1979, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates a draft reply by the WEU Council to Assembly Recommendation 323 on disarmament. The document incorporates several amendments made by the French and the British. Some of these amendments are included in the final reply to the Recommendation (C(79)83).

On 21 October 1980, the Defence Department in the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) issues an internal note in which it summarises a telephone conversation between Joep Mommersteeg, former Dutch State Secretary for Defence and Member of the Western European Union (WEU) Assembly, and Douglas Hurd, British Minister for Europe. Joep Mommersteeg wants to discuss some aspects of his report drafted on behalf of the WEU Assembly on SALT III and the British and French nuclear forces. The discussion with Douglas Hurd focuses on the UK’s interest in increasing cooperation with France on defence matters and on the level of independence of Britain’s nuclear deterrent. Hurd underlines that the British nuclear weapons targeting policy is based on the criteria outlined by SACEUR, but that the United Kingdom did retain the right to use the weapons unilaterally in a supreme national emergency. Regarding cooperation with France, the Prime Minister’s recent message to French President Giscard d’Estaing signals his general interest in defence cooperation.

On 17 December 1980, the Western European Union (WEU) Council agrees that the United Kingdom delegation should draft a reply to WEU Assembly Recommendation 360. The first draft text prepared by the UK delegation, issued on 21 January 1981, reaffirms the WEU Council’s beliefs that the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation’s (NATO) defence and arms control policies should operate complementarily. The strategic balance between the USSR and the United States is central to the security of the Alliance. The draft reply also highlights the deterrent role that British and French nuclear forces could play.

On 11 June 1981, the Defence Department in the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) submits its revisions for the wording of the reply to Western European Union (WEU) Recommendation 360 on the Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT) and the status of British and French nuclear forces.

On 16 December 1981, Philip John Weston, Head of the Defence Department in the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), sends a note to David Gillmore, Assistant Under-Secretary of State, regarding discussions with French diplomats about Western European defence issues. The note outlines the concerns expressed by Jacques Laureau, Deputy Director in the Strategic Affairs and Pacts Department of the French Foreign Ministry, about the long-term dangers of the ‘zero option’ negotiations and the compatibility of the negotiating approaches employed concerning the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) and the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START).

On 4 October 1982, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates a new version by the United Kingdom delegation of point (b) (vii) of the draft reply by the WEU Council to Recommendation 382 on disarmament. The text concerns the negotiations on mutual and balanced force reductions (MBFR) in Europe. The majority of the British proposal is included in the final reply to the Recommendation (C(82)117).

On 4 December 1963, the Assembly of Western European Union (WEU) adopts Recommendation 97 on the state of European security, disarmament and the nuclear force. Given the ongoing arms race, the Assembly requests that each Member State of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) make the achievement of a treaty of general and comprehensive disarmament the overriding aim of its foreign and defence policy. The Assembly also urges the WEU Council to take what steps it can to ensure that a system for the control of nuclear weapons is developed in NATO.

On 6 May 1964, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates the WEU Council’s reply to Assembly Recommendation 97 on the state of European security, disarmament and the nuclear force. The Council shares the Assembly’s views on the importance for the security of Western Europe of general disarmament under effective international inspection and control. Moreover, since the question of disarmament and arms control in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) has the continuous attention of the North Atlantic Council, the Recommendation has been forwarded to it.

At the 316th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 4 and 5 April 1967 in Rome, the delegations discuss the development of East–West relations. British Foreign Secretary George Brown and the General Secretary of the French Foreign Ministry, Hervé Alphand, consider that Western policy towards the Eastern bloc should not be allowed to lead to any relaxation of Western countries solidarity. Hervé Alphand emphasises France’s continued efforts to achieve a policy of détente, entente and cooperation with regard to the countries of Eastern Europe. George Brown notes the British Government’s intention to negotiate a treaty of friendship and peaceful cooperation with the Soviet Union and points out that a conference on European security could be useful as long as it is properly prepared. WEU seems to be an appropriate forum for bilateral talks on such a conference, provided the governments maintain close contact with each other.

On 9 December 1969, the Assembly of Western European (WEU) adopts Recommendation 189 on the treaty on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, in which it asks the WEU Council to adopt a common policy that will particularly encourage all member countries to sign and ratify the nuclear non-proliferation treaty (NPT) at the earliest possible date.

At the 386th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 9 and 10 January 1970 in Brussels, the delegations discuss East–West relations. The British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Michael Stewart, welcomes the attempts made by the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) to improve its relations with Eastern Europe. He also notes that in recent months the Soviet Union has adopted a more moderate style towards the West, but he doubts that there have been any real changes in the main objectives of Soviet foreign policy. With regard to the proposal by the member countries of the Warsaw Pact to organise a conference on European security, the British Government is in agreement with the line taken by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), which does not simply accept the proposal at face value but does not refute it entirely. The British also believe that the unilateral attempts to resolve problems with the Soviet Union have not been advantageous and that NATO should remain the appropriate forum, at least in the first instance.

On 10 March 1970, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates the final reply by the WEU Council to Assembly Recommendation 189 on the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). Regarding the signing of the Treaty by the WEU Member States, the Council merely lists the six signatory countries: the United Kingdom, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG). It does not mention France, the only WEU Member State that has not signed the Treaty. As a depository government , the United Kingdom ratified the NPT on 27 November 1968. The five other WEU Member States are deferring ratification of the Treaty until an agreement on verification procedures has been concluded between the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

On 1 December 1971, the Assembly of Western European Union (WEU) adopts Recommendation 216 on the political implications of the European security conference. It particularly asks the WEU Council to harmonise the policies of Western European countries and to take into consideration the interdependence of a policy of disarmament and the successful conclusion of negotiations on security and cooperation between Eastern and Western Europe.

On 24 May 1972, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates the WEU Council’s final reply to Assembly Recommendation 216 on the political implications of the European Security Conference. The Council welcomes the recent progress in the development of East–West relations and sees the security conference as an opportunity to further promote peace in Europe, provided the Western countries maintain close cooperation, hold regular consultations and prepare for the conference properly in order to improve confidence between the two blocs.

On 21 June 1973, the Assembly of Western European Union (WEU) adopts Recommendation 238 on European security — relations with the countries of Eastern Europe, in which it calls on the WEU Council and the member governments to continue to improve Europe’s contribution to Western defence and to pursue the joint production of armaments. It also urges them to ensure that any East–West agreement on force reductions should not harm the security and interests of Western Europe and that any agreements on strategic arms limitation should impose no restrictions on the transfer of weapons or technology to the allies of the United States.

On 7 November 1973, the Council of Western European Union (WEU) circulates its reply to Recommendation 238 of the WEU Assembly on European security — relations with the countries of Eastern Europe. On the matter of Western defence, the Council considers that the maintenance of an adequate defence capability will continue to be essential and that the dual concept of ‘defence–détente’ remains the basis of the defence measures undertaken by the European countries in various institutions. With regard to Europe’s contribution to Western defence, the role of the Standing Armaments Committee (SAC) will be re-examined and its activities carefully monitored. Progress has been achieved within the Eurogroup. The issue of relations between the United States and Europe is currently being studied by the Atlantic Alliance. The United States has reaffirmed its formal pledge regarding its military presence in Europe, stating that it will maintain and improve its forces in Europe and not reduce them except in the context of an East/West agreement. As regards the negotiations on mutual and balanced force reductions (MBFR) in Europe, the Council points out that the Western governments have undertaken to maintain the indivisibility of the security of the Alliance and only to enter into commitments which ensure undiminished security for all. On the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT), the close allied consultations will enable the WEU Member States to ensure that the negotiations do not jeopardise their security or their interests.

On 21 November 1978, the Assembly of Western European Union (WEU) adopts Recommendation 323 on disarmament, in which it calls on the WEU Council and the member governments to take concerted action to secure universal agreement on a programme of immediate disarmament and arms control measures.

On 21 November 1978, the Assembly of Western European Union (WEU) adopts Recommendation 324 on the limitation of strategic arms, in which it asks the WEU Council to work together to reach agreement on a common defence policy based on nuclear deterrence and to make a coordinated effort to re-establish the true balance of forces between the Atlantic Alliance and the Warsaw Pact. The Assembly recommends that the North Atlantic Council should examine every aspect of the strategic arms limitation talks.

On 21 March 1979, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates the reply from the WEU Council to Assembly Recommendation 324 on the limitation of strategic arms. The Council reaffirms its resolve to seek further improvement in East/West relations and believes that specific arms control and disarmament measures would contribute significantly to the quest for security and stability. In this context, the Council supports the negotiations for a second SALT agreement (Strategic Arms Limitation Talks) and notes that the United States is keeping the North Atlantic Council informed of the progress of negotiations. Nevertheless, the WEU member countries have noted with concern the steady build-up of the Warsaw Pact forces. Consequently, to ensure deterrence and defence in Western Europe, they are continuing to support the modernisation and strengthening of allied capabilities.

At the 548th meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 16 May 1979 in Rome, the delegations discuss the development of East–West relations. The French Junior Minister for European Affairs, Pierre Bernard-Reymond, welcomes the good relations between France and the Soviet Union and expresses his support for détente, which must go hand in hand with disarmament. He particularly mentions the successful conclusion of Soviet–American negotiations on limiting strategic arms. But since détente also depends on a balance of strength, France intends to keep up its defence effort for as long as this seems necessary. The Deputy Under-Secretary of State in the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Sir Ewen Fergusson, describes the difficult relations between the USSR and the United Kingdom. He believes that the British Government is generally in favour of détente on condition that it is not a one-way process; it is therefore important to maintain a strong defence capability.

On 7 June 1979, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates the reply by the WEU Council to Assembly Recommendation 323 on disarmament. The Council confirms its undertaking to support all efforts to further progress towards general and complete disarmament under international control. But it notes that, despite its determination, it appears to be impossible to set a precise term for the conclusion of universally acceptable agreements.

On 15 June 1982, the Assembly of Western European Union (WEU) adopts Recommendation 382 on disarmament, in which it asks the WEU Council and the member governments to take concerted action to secure a substantial reduction in the level of nuclear weapons, to achieve the ‘zero option’ in Europe in the INF (Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces) talks, and also to establish a proper balance of conventional forces. The Assembly also recommends working to conclude an agreement on specific disarmament and arms control measures at world and European level.

At the 561st meeting of the Council of Western European Union (WEU), held at ministerial level on 14 May 1980 in Luxembourg, the delegations discuss the repercussions of the Soviet invasion in Afghanistan for the development of East–West relations. The British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Peter Blaker, and the French Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Jean Sauvagnargues, agree with the Western countries’ strong reaction to the Soviet intervention and emphasise that pressure should be maintained on the USSR. But the policy of détente should be continued and dialogue should be pursued on matters relating to the prevention of nuclear war, disarmament and arms control. The British representative supports the ratification of the SALT II Agreement and the continuation of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe.

On 6 October 1982, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates a draft reply by the WEU Council to Assembly Recommendation 382 on disarmament. The text includes the original German proposal and a series of British amendments, most of which are included in the final reply to the Recommendation (C (82) 117). The British delegation’s amendments particularly concern the section on the negotiations on mutual and balanced force reductions (MBFR) in Europe, as well as the section on organising a conference on disarmament in Europe.

On 27 October 1982, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates the final reply by the WEU Council to question 230 put by a member of the Assembly on the negotiations between the United States and the Soviet Union for limiting nuclear weapons. The Council explains that consultations on the issue of nuclear arms limitation have taken place within the framework of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). Proposals on Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) have been drawn up in close consultation with the other members of NATO. Moreover, since a special forum, the Special Consultative Group (SCG), has been set up, the Council does not see the need to have recourse to other bodies for this kind of consultation.

On 9 November 1982, the Secretary-General of Western European Union (WEU) circulates the reply by the WEU Council to Assembly Recommendation 382 on disarmament. The Council particularly emphasises its view that the START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) and INF (Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces) negotiations represent a major contribution to arms control, stability and peace. But it points out that only mutually agreed reductions will promote security. On the matter of the INF talks, the Council rejects a geographical approach centred exclusively on Europe, advocating instead the ‘global approach’ put forward by the United States. The Council also encourages initiatives to promote negotiations for a complete and verifiable ban on chemical weapons. With regard to the negotiations on mutual and balanced force reductions in Europe (MBFR), it asks the East for clarification of the discrepancies in the data for Warsaw Pact forces. Finally, the Council reaffirms its support for the convening of a conference on disarmament, which it believes could serve as a starting point for more extensive arms control agreements.