Halting of Iran’s nuclear programme a first step

Labour welcomes the interim position arrived at with Iran over its nuclear capability, says Labour’s Disarmament spokesperson Maryan Street.

“Any step towards reducing the threat of the use of nuclear weapons is to be welcomed.

“This international agreement, brokered by Lady Catherine Ashton and other significant world players, is the first step to a more comprehensive agreement with Iran. Iran keeps the ability to enrich uranium but well below the level required to make nuclear weapons. In exchange, long time sanctions against Iran will be gradually eased.

“This is the most significant step towards a more stable world that we have seen in a long time.

“First must come an agreement not to create or stockpile any more nuclear weapons, followed by an international agreement to disarm progressively and demonstrably. Finally, there must be an eradication of these most devastating of weapons of mass destruction.

“This interim agreement is a breakthrough, especially in the brittle Middle East environment.

“Labour’s history of anti-nuclear commitment, which is now New Zealand’s commitment, means that we are sensitive to any developments in the area of nuclear weaponry.

“We will be watching with great interest as the negotiations continue over the next six months. We welcome the approach of Iran’s new leadership and hope that stability and accountability in the region will prevail, Maryan Street says.

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