Nuclear deal very much on, says Moily

Chennai, Feb 29 (UNI) AICC general secretary M Veerappa Moily today said the nuclear deal with the US was very much on in accordance with the consensus reached between the UPA government and the Left under the 'Joint Mechanism.' Speaking to newspersons here after a 30-minute-long meeting with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president M Karunanidhi at his Gopalapuram Residence, Mr Moily said ''a joint mechanism between the UPA government and the Left parties has been set up.

''The UPA government's stand is clear. Whatever is being done is according to consensus reached between the UPA and the Left under the mechanism,'' he said.

''It is on this basis from time to time both will meet to discuss and take decisions. Only after joint mechanism gave the nod, the government started talks with the IAEA. We have not taken any final decision on the deal. However, it is very much on,'' Mr Moily added.

''If it is off, then there is no need for such a joint mechanism,'' Mr Moily said.

UNI GV GM SP DS1249