Govt not averse to nuke deal discussion, says Dasmunsi

Even as Prime Minister Manmohan Singh8217;s intention to intervene in the debate was made known, the UPA government also made it clear that it would prefer to have a 8220;short-duration discussion8221; on the Indo-US civilian nuclear deal.

Even as Prime Minister Manmohan Singh8217;s intention to intervene in the debate was made known, the UPA government also made it clear that it would prefer to have a 8220;short-duration discussion8221; on the Indo-US civilian nuclear deal.

Indications of this came after Parliamentary Affairs Minister Priya Ranjan Dasmunsi expressed concern over a strong rumour in Parliament that copies of a notice put by main opposition party BJP to get the deal discussed under Rule 184 were in circulation.

He even said a copy had gone to the External Affairs Ministry. 8220;We urge the Speaker to allow a short duration discussion. The government would prefer not to divide the House on an issue that is not entirely decided. The 123 Agreement is yet to be signed, the process is not complete.8221;

He also said the House had never discussed a foreign policy issue under Rule 184. Desperation to avoid voting on the issue is quite understandable. It would not only be embarrassing for the government if it becomes evident that it does not have the full support of Parliament, it would also put the Left parties who have till now taken a rather critical view of the deal in a piquant situation.

Sources from the ruling party said while the Prime Minister was keen to have a discussion on the issue, which would help the government in negotiating with the US, he would not like to give an impression to the outside world that he has not been able to carry Parliament along.

On his part, Dasmunsi confirmed that the Prime Minister would be speaking in both the Houses on the civilian nuclear issue. However, he could not specify whether the PM would reply or just intervene during the debate. He said it would be known once Singh gets back from his Japan trip on December 16.

Speaker8217;s office confirmed that. But the debate is likely to take place under Rule 193 in the Lok Sabha on Monday.