§ 18. Mr. Jacksonasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he is aware that the present arrangement between Rhodesia and Zambia concerning the Kariba power and the use of the railways is protected by international agreement involving Great Britain; and what steps Her Majesty's Government will take to uphold this agreement.
§ Mr. BottomleyThe Higher Authorities which control the Central African Power Corporation and Rhodesia Railways were set up by virtue of Agreements between the Southern and Northern Rhodesian Governments. Britain has certain guarantor responsibilities in respect of international loans to these organisations. The question of any action to uphold the Agreements, if threatened, is hypothetical, and I would not therefore wish to comment on what could be done if unconstitutional action took place.
§ Mr. JacksonWill my right hon. Friend at any rate keep in mind the speech of President Kaunda recently when he commented on any possible threat to these supplies from Rhodesia?
§ Mr. BottomleyYes, Sir. The speech has been noted not only by Her Majesty's Government but also by the Government of Rhodesia.