DR LIAM FOX, the shadow defence secretary, has spelled out his view on Iran during a visit to St Andrews University, claiming a self-serving elite are “condemning it to economic failure, inflation and international isolation.”

At a public lecture to university staff, students and townsfolk on relations with Iran, the Conservative MP said a crucial test of the ability of the system to evolve from within would be in the Parliamentary elections next month.

In his address, entitled Britain and Iran—Mutual Recognition of Shared Interests, Dr Fox said, “The people of Iran deserve so much better, but it is they who must be the final arbiters of their own destiny. The whole world will, over the coming weeks, hope that they have the strength and fortitude to overcome the hurdles they face in asserting themselves and the courage to make the right decisions for theirs and Iran’s future.”

He told the audience in Parliament Hall he did not agree with those who believed there was little point in trying to engage Iran further under its current government.

“Engagement is always likely to produce better results than the alternative, especially as failing to talk is generally regarded in the Middle East as arrogance rather than strength.

“But we equally need to be clear about the nature of what we are dealing with and respond with clarity, strength and consistency.”

Dr Fox added that an increase in international trade would be to everyone’s benefit. “We want to see a more prosperous and free Iran take its rightful place as an important regional and global player.”

On the issue of civil nuclear power, Iran had a right to this technology under the non-proliferation treaty but only if it complied fully with its obligations under international law.

The seminar was chaired by Professor Ali Ansari, director of the university’s Institute for Iranian Studies.