HC Deb 13 June 1961 vol 642 c180
18. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, in view of the danger of fire from the disturbances in Angola, especially in the approaching dry season, what steps are being taken in the neighbouring territory of Northern Rhodesia to prevent the spread of fire into that territory.

Mr. Iain Macleod

The boundary between Angola and Northern Rhodesia is marked by a cleared strip which acts as a fire break. There are regular patrols during the dry season.

Mr. Rankin

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in these border areas fire bombs have been used by the Portuguese during the disturbances, despite the cleared strip? Does not the use of these fire bombs present a danger to foodstuffs, fuel, factories and so on across the border? If it does not cease, will the right hon. Gentleman make a protest to the Portuguese Government?

Mr. Macleod

I think that the fact that this boundary is marked by a cleared strip, which in itself is a firebreak, together with the additional precaution that during the dry season there are regular patrols, should take care of any anxiety which the hon. Gentleman has.

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