‘Star Wars’ Agreements Near

Britain and West Germany today signaled their readiness to sign agreements with the United States to participate in the research and development of the “Star Wars” missile defense program.

After talks with West German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher said, “It is my belief we are likely to sign an agreement, both of us, before Christmas.” The agreements would be the first since President Reagan invited U.S. allies to participate in the development of the defense system.