HC Deb 02 May 1967 vol 746 cc287-8
9. Mr. Wall

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs what protest has been made to the Zambian Government about the treatment of Mr. Cunningham and Miss Challis; and what explanation has been received.

Mr. George Thomas

None, Sir. Both of these persons left Zambia of their own accord.

Mr. Wall

I understand that both these British subjects have been subjected to a travesty of justice? They escaped from the country just before warrants were issued for their arrest. Is the hon. Gentleman aware that Mr. Cunningham's property has been sold without his permission? Will the hon. Gentleman look into this case in some detail?

Mr. Thomas

I am always willing to look into any case which the hon. Gentleman brings to my attention, but I must tell the House that neither of these persons asked our High Commissioner to make any protest.

Mr. Whitaker

Is my hon. Friend aware that Mr. Cunningham stated in Salisbury two days ago that last week he met 20 Conservative Members in Britain, but not any member of the British public who was not supporting Ian Smith? Does my hon. Friend have any idea of the names of this Fifth Column?

Mr. Thomas

The gentleman referred to met me, and I must say that I could not have made much impression. He must have forgotten it, because I gave him no impression of support for Mr. Smith.

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