§ 04. Mr. Hastingsasked the Prime Minister whether he will make a statement on the progress of the talks on Rhodesia.
§ The Prime MinisterI have as yet nothing to add to the statement I made in the House on 5th July.
§ Mr. HastingsIn the circumstances, does not the Prime Minister think that two weeks is adequate time for reflection? When will these talks start again? Secondly, can he confirm what I understand to be the policy of Her Majesty's Government, that in no circumstances whatever will the Rhodesian problem be handed over to either the United Nations or any other international or foreign power or body?
§ The Prime MinisterBoth sides, I think, need time for reflection in the light of the detailed discussions that have been held so far. As to future policy, I have nothing to add to the statement I made on 5th July. I have, however, made clear time and time again—and this is the purpose of the discussions—that we believe that this is a problem that, if we can, we ourselves should settle direct with the Rhodesian people as a whole. That is what we are seeking to do by the talks.
§ Mr. MaudlingWill the Prime Minister undertake to make a further statement in time to enable the House to debate it, if necessary, before we rise for the Summer Recess?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, I have given that assurance to the Leader of the Opposition. Obviously, I cannot give any pledge about finding time, but what I understood that the right hon. Gentle- 376 man wanted was that it should be early enough so that if time is to be found, by the Opposition or in any other way, there should be time for debate.