HC Deb 26 February 1968 vol 759 cc926-7
13. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action is being taken by Her Majesty's Government with regard to the Resolution of the United Nations General Assembly dated 21st November, 1967, on the report of the Fourth Committee concerning territories under Portuguese administration.

Mr. Goronwy Roberts

Her Majesty's Government have repeatedly made it clear that they regret Portugal's unwillingness to admit that the principle of self-determination is applicable to her overseas territories. We voted against the resolution because it contained several unacceptable features.

Mr. Biggs-Davison

Is it not the case that both the I.L.O. and the W.H.O. made favourable reports on the administration of Portuguese provinces in Africa? Will the Government suggest to the U.N. Secretary-General that he should accept the latest invitation by the Portuguese Government to visit these territories to see conditions for himself?

Mr. Roberts

There may be such reports but the resolution was directed to the shortcomings of Portugal in regard to a specific but fundamental fact, namely, unwillingness to admit the principle of self-determination as applicable to her overseas territories. We must insist that this is accepted by all countries. Although we would have wished to have voted for this resolution and were prevented from doing so only by the fact that there were introduced into it unacceptable references and provisions, we stand very firmly behind the views of the United Nations on this matter.

Mr. Whitaker

Could we not suggest at the United Nations that referendum be held in these territorie: similar to the one we held in Gibraltar to ascertain what the wishes of the inhabitants are?

Mr. Roberts

That is an interesting suggestion.