Prevention of Nuclear Proliferation

Denis MacShane Excerpts

Tuesday 13th December 2011 Commons Chamber

[Mr Baron]

I am afraid that the Iranians have a slightly longer memory than just 12 years. They remember our support for Saddam Hussein when he invaded Iran, and many other interventions in Iran by the west are still fresh in their memories.

We need to go the extra mile for peace. Much greater emphasis needs to be placed on quiet yet vigorous diplomacy between Iran and the west. The UK is well placed to help in this effort. Despite recent measures announced by the Foreign Secretary, of the three stated enemies of Iran—the UK, the US and Israel—only one still has diplomatic relations with Iran.

[Mr Denis MacShane (Rotherham) (Lab)]

Will the hon. Gentleman give way?

[Mr Baron]

No, because we are very short of time—I apologise.

I suggest that we give diplomacy a greater chance for one final push before it is too late.