asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the Government's view on the rights of the Palestinian people in any Middle East peace settlement.

The Government believe that the Palestinian people have a right to self-determination. Provision for the exercise of this right is seen as one of a number of elements to be included in any formula designed to bring an end to the Arab-Israeli conflict. All options should be open as the end of the process of self-determination including, if it is desired, the creation of an independent Palestinian state. The Government believe the Palestinian people should play a full part in negotiations on a settlement of the Arab-Israeli dispute and in this regard have recognised the role that the Palestine Liberation Organisation plays in representing them.