Statement 15 May, 1991

The talks were most helpful and encouraging and the Prime Minister showed his dedication to take time to deal with the difficulties that had arisen.

We were glad to have clarified that the word basis used in paragraph two of what had been called an ultimatum referred to the procedures [sic] Strand two and three and not to the basis upon which Strand one was being held.

As we made clear before coming here today, we intend pressing on with Strand one.

In regard to the other matters concerning Strands two and three, we intimated that we needed the matters of an 'independent Chairman' and the locations in Northern Ireland fully clarified before we could have full agreement.

We obtained assurances that an independent Chairman - whatever his nationality - would not result in international adjudication on, for example, the Irish territorial claim to Northern Ireland.