If the implication of his remarks is that we should sit down and talk with Mr. Adams and the Provisional IRA, I can say only that that would turn my stomach and those of most hon. Members; we will not do it. If and when there is a total ending of violence, and if and when that ending of violence is established for a significant time, we shall talk to all the constitutional parties that have people elected in their names. I will not talk to people who murder indiscriminately.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author refuses to negotiate with groups using indiscriminate violence but will talk once violence ends permanently.
- In plain terms
- We won't talk to killers, but we will talk to politicians if violence stops.
- What can you take from it?
- Peace negotiations require a credible end to violence.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can you negotiate with enemies?
- When does violence justify silence?
Another view
Waiting for total peace may prolong conflict indefinitely.
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