§ 1. Mr. David Steelasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what replies he has received from the South African Government to his representations about Mr. Michael Dingake's illegal abduction from Rhodesia; and what further action he proposes to take in the matter.
§ The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (Mrs. Eirene White)In answer to our representations, the South African authorities replied last week that they could not accede to our request for Mr. Dingake's release for deportation to Bechuanaland. Further represenations are being considered.
§ Mr. SteelWill the Minister of State undertake to press the matter most strongly through our ambassador in South Africa, and will she make clear the displeasure of Members on both sides in this matter?
§ Mrs. WhiteWe will, of course, do everything we can. We have let the South African Government know our feelings in the matter but, as I have explained in answer to earlier Questions, there are certain legal difficulties.