UK today backs Indo-US nuclear deal

CHENNAI: Britain on Tuesday backed the Indo-US nuclear deal, saying that it is good for India and that London is keen to see that it is concluded.

"Britain is keen to see the deal conclude. It is a good deal for India in the long term, which makes sense," for both sides, the British High Commissioner Richard Stagg told reporters on the sidelines of a public lecture.

Asked about the 'apprehensions' to the deal in India, he said it was a well-balanced deal which 'makes sense' for both sides.

The deal would help India in its long-term interest on energy supply, but at the same time, cannot be the 'golden bullet' to solve all of India's energy problems. It would however, be the building block for ensuring a strong environment of energy supply.

He said Britain and India would focus on areas of collaboration, including climate change,during the forthcoming summit talks between the Prime Ministers of India and Britain in New Delhi in January.

To a question on the delivery of Advanced Jet Trainers (AJT) Hawks to India, Stagg said he was happy over the delivery of the first two aircraft recently, with more to be delivered in February 2008.

"Its a long-term programme and the Hawks are very good aircraft," he said.

Two of the 66 AJTs reached India recently. Of the 66 aircraft, 24 are being developed, built and supplied by BAE Systems, UK, while Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL), Bangalore, will manufacture the remaining 42 here under licence.