HC Deb 09 August 1966 vol 733 cc1390-1
Q5. Mr. Driberg

asked the Prime Minister if he will now assess the extent to which the sanctions so far applied have weakened the illegal régime in Rhodesia; what effect these sanctions are expected to have by the end of October; and what further action is proposed by Her Majesty's Government.

The Prime Minister

This question is subject to continuous assessment, Sir, and there can be no doubt that the economic sanctions are biting deep. As I explained yesterday, we intend vigorously to maintain our sanctions policy. Any further intensification of sanctions must depend on the developments of the next few weeks.

Mr. Driberg

Would my right hon. Friend agree that Mr. Smith's speech of last Saturday, to which my right hon. Friend referred adversely yesterday, makes it impossible at any rate to include Mr. Smith and his colleagues in any future Government of Rhodesia?

The Prime Minister

I referred yesterday to Mr. Smith's speech. As I stated, I think it was most unfortunate, even though he was addressing some of the most fanatical of his supporters. But, as I made clear, I do not think that the speech is any reason why we should not go on with these probing talks which have now been renewed.

Mr. Longden

What further intensification of sanctions short of force can there be?

The Prime Minister

I have said that this must depend on developments in the next few weeks. As the hon. Gentleman will be aware, the Zambian Government are intensifying their trade pressures against Rhodesia which up to now, for reasons we all understand, have not been quite so deep as those of some other countries.

Mr. Raphael Tuck

If the stalemate goes on much longer, will my right hon. Friend consider sterner measures?

The Prime Minister

We must, as I have said, await developments of the next few weeks. Informal talks are now to start and we must see how far they get and what result there may be from them. If, however, there is clear intransigence and unwillingness to move forward from the previous position, we shall obviously have to consider the position.