Mr Major’s Doorstep Interview (II) – 22 February 1991

Below is the text of Mr Major’s second doorstep interview on Friday 22nd February 1991, held in London outside 10 Downing Street.

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QUESTION:

Can you tell us about your response to the peace proposals?

PRIME MINISTER:

We have had an opportunity of looking at it in some depth; we had a look at it overnight. We had some discussions this morning with the United States and with others. I had the opportunity of speaking at length to the President on the phone earlier this morning, and on behalf of the Allies he will make our response clear fairly shortly I think.

QUESTION:

Is it broadly a rejection or is it broadly an acceptance?

PRIME MINISTER:

It will be broadly clear in a few moments and the President will make it clear on behalf of all of us.

QUESTION:

Will there be other diplomatic steps being taken this afternoon?

PRIME MINISTER:

The first thing that is going to happen is that we will make clear our response to the 8-point plan that was announced last evening. We will make our response absolutely crystal clear and I think other things will follow automatically from that. I don’t think you will have to wait very long for it.

QUESTION:

Will the response be the response of all the allied countries?

PRIME MINISTER:

Yes, all the allied countries. There has been a considerable degree of consultation since last evening and it will be a response on behalf of all the allies. The precise timing is not too far away.

QUESTION:

And are you anticipating further negotiations?

PRIME MINISTER:

I think you had better wait for the statement and I think then all will become clear.

QUESTION:

Would you be able to give us more details in person later, Prime Minister?

PRIME MINISTER:

I think it is quite possible I will.