§ Q3. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Prime Minister what authority has been given for the interception by Her Majesty's ships and aircraft of oil tankers or other vessels approaching the Portuguese province of Mozambique; what vessels have been intercepted, and with what result; and what diplomatic action followed.
§ The Prime MinisterThe answer to the three parts of the Question is none, Sir, none, Sir, and none, Sir.
§ Mr. Biggs-DavisonIs this not a surprising answer, if the Prime Minister is serious about oil sanctions—[Laughter.] This is not a very cheerful subject. Is not the dangerous logic of this dangerous policy the extension of oil sanctions to South Africa and Portuguese territory? Will the Prime Minister resist any temptation to internationalise this conflict, contrary to British interests and those of world peace?
§ The Prime MinisterI am very glad that the hon. Gentleman is beginning to 1096 realise the dangers of this being internationalised. He does not appear to have realised it up to now. He will remember that when this was debated just before Christmas I made it plain that we had no intention or idea of trying to settle these matters by force. If he quarrels with the sanctions policy, he should remember that it has been supported throughout by the Leader and the Front Bench of his party.