HC Deb 11 May 1967 vol 746 cc1688-9
35. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs whether, in view of widespread dubiety and the need to maintain the rights and interests of Rhodesian British subjects in Zambia and elsewhere, he will make clear which functions of the Rhodesian Government have, and which have not, been assumed by Her Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom.

The Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. Herbert Bowden)

The United Kingdom Government and I have from time to time and as occasion required exercised the legislative and executive powers conferred by the Southern Rhodesia Act, 1965, and by Orders in Council made under that Act. Apart from these powers. Her Majesty's Government have not assumed any of the functions of the Government of Southern Rhodesia.

As regards the protection of the interests of Rhodesian citizens in other countries—which has never been a function of the Government of Southern Rhodesia or, indeed, of the Government of any Colony—I would refer the hon. Member to the Answers given by my hon. Friend the Minister of State on 2nd May. —[Vol. 746, c. 297–8.]

Mr. Biggs-Davison

Is it not clear that the Government accept or disclaim responsibility just as they think fit? As regards the protection of Rhodesian British subjects, as there has been, in Her Majesty's Government's view, a change in the position of Rhodesia since U.D.I., is it not up to the United Kingdom Government to protect Rhodesian British subjects in trouble in other countries?

Mr. Bowden

Although there is undoubtedly a right in the British Government to act on behalf of Rhodesian citizens, there is no obligation. In the case which, I think, the hon. Gentleman has in mind, we did so.

36. Mr. Ian Lloyd

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs, in view of the figures recently given for the cost of sanctions, whether he will now recognise thede factogovernment of Rhodesia.

Mr. Bowden

No, Sir.

Mr. Lloyd

Has not enough of the combined wealth of Britain and Rhodesia now been spent to demonstrate policy irreconcilables as old as the European occupation of Southern Africa? If such sums have to be spent, would they not be more appropriately spent on dealing with the discrimination disclosed by the P.E.P. Report within the United Kingdom, where we have some influence, rather than in Rhodesia, where we have sacrificed practically all that we had?

Mr. Bowden

The hon. Gentleman seems to have overlooked that, on 11th November, 1965, Her Majesty dismissed the Rhodesian Ministers from office. When they return to a position of legality, we can discuss the position, and any cost on either side could then be saved.

Mr. Tinn

Can my right hon. Friend explain how sanctions can be claimed to be so damaging and expensive by hon. Members opposite and, at the same, be held by them to be ineffective?

Mr. Bowden

No, Sir. It is not my responsibility to explain the minds of hon. Members opposite.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

Has the right hon. Gentleman noted reports that contracts have been entered into between M. Boussac and the Rhodesians for the exchange of textiles and tobacco, and has he made any efforts to investigate the validity of these reports?

Mr. Bowden

Yes, Sir; I have seen the reports. The hon. Gentleman may be assured that investigations are taking place to see what can be done to prevent this sort of illegal action taking place.

Mr. Winnick

Will my right hon. Friend ignore these pro-Smith pleas from hon. Members opposite who, since U.D.I., have given comfort and assistance to the traitors in Salisbury?