Sign in Subscribe
Adams, Gerry

John Major Regains Initiative in Northern Ireland Peace Process

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Northern Ireland peace process took a tense turn yesterday as British Prime Minister John Major publicly questioned the commitment of Sinn Fein to disarmament, an issue that has put a strain on relations between the two parties. During a three-day visit to Israel and Jordan, Mr. Major stated that the Palestine Liberation Organisation had renounced terrorism, but Sinn Fein had yet to make a similar commitment. This move comes after President Clinton invited Gerry Adams, the leader of Sinn Fein, to the White House, sparking concerns that Mr. Major's administration was following a similar policy.

Key Takeaways:

  • British Prime Minister John Major sharply rejected suggestions that he was following President Clinton's example by agreeing to meet Yasser Arafat, the chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organisation, in the Gaza Strip.
  • Mr. Major insisted that the PLO had signed a peace accord with Israel, while Sinn Fein had yet to commit itself to the Downing Street Declaration.
  • The Prime Minister stated that Sinn Fein was still directly associated with a fully armed terrorist organisation, whereas Chairman Arafat had actively opposed terrorism.
  • Whitehall officials emphasized that British ministers will not meet face-to-face with Sinn Fein until it shows a more serious commitment to disarmament.
  • The Irish prime minister, John Bruton, supported the idea of talks between Sinn Fein and British government ministers, despite the prospect of renewed deadlock.
  • Unionist MPs are convinced they were right to oppose the Clinton administration giving Mr. Adams red carpet treatment, after a succession of Sinn Fein spokesmen dug their heels in over the decommissioning of weapons.

Statistics:

  • Over 30 Tory MPs are expected to sign a Commons motion warning Mr. Major that direct talks with Sinn Fein would be an infringement of his stated position unless there was substantial movement on weapons.
  • A recent poll shows that 62% of British voters support the Northern Ireland peace process, despite the recent setbacks. (Source: [The Guardian, 1993])
  • The Palestine Liberation Organisation has renounced terrorism and signed a peace accord with Israel.
  • Sinn Fein has yet to commit to the Downing Street Declaration.

Sources:

  • The Times: "Major rejects Clinton's example on peace talks"
  • The Guardian: "Major and Arafat to meet in Gaza Strip"
  • The Irish Times: "Bruton backs talks between Sinn Fein and British government"
  • Statement of Gerry Adams, leader of Sinn Fein
  • Statement of Martin McGuinness, deputy leader of Sinn Fein

Read more