If improvement in consultation is to occur, the obligation to consult must be clarified and to a degree limited. Information will be volunteered on matters likely to embarrass significantly other parties. Consultation will be undertaken where the vital interests of other parties are involved. Consultation will be undertaken at the request of one or more other parties. Previous agreements for consultation on specific matters will be honored.
Experience is at odds with hopes for implementation of agreed criteria.
As a general rule, countries have been unprepared to consult on the most important issues. The report argues, however, for improved consultative procedures by which governments would face difficult issues early, informally and without drama. The involvement of legislators is also advisable in general, and indispensable in the U.S. system. A recognition by political leaders of the importance of effective consultation is essential. A Trilateral Staff Group should be established of senior governmental advisers with the personal confidence of the heads of government.