HC Deb 22 January 1968 vol 757 cc8-9
10. Mr. Moyle

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is satisfied with continued British participation in the affairs of the Fourth Committee of the United Nations; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. William Rodgers

The Fourth Committee is one of the main Committees of the General Assembly and includes all members of the United Nations. We intend to continue to take a full part in its work.

Mr. Moyle

Whilst being fully sympathetic with the wishes of the Gibraltarians not to be ruled by a Fascist dictatorship, may I ask whether my hon. Friend will bear in mind that this Committee can be a useful channel for directing world opinion against the Government of South Africa on its unfortunate attitude towards the South-West African mandate?

Mr. Rodgers

It would not be right to be drawn into the particular issues which my hon. Friend has raised; but it is clear that, while the recommendations of the Fourth Committee are not mandatory, we attach great importance to them as representing the majority of the member States. We consider each one on its merit and we consider fully what useful part the Fourth Committee can play.

Mr. Ridsdale

Why does not the British representative on the Fourth Committee vote against the use of force against Rhodesia? Surely, whatever the British Government may think, they do not believe in the use of force against Rhodesia?

Mr. Rodgers

I do not think that the individual issue of Rhodesia arises on this Question. As I say, we consider what we shall do on the merits at the time.

Mr. Ogden

Does my hon. Friend agree that the British representative on this Committee has one of the most difficult tasks at the United Nations, and will he give him our support?

Mr. Rodgers

Yes. I am glad that my hon. Friend has said that. I want to pay great tribute to the work recently done by my hon. Friend the Member for Oxford (Mr. Luard), who has put up a truly magnificent performance in most difficult and sometimes trying conditions.

Mr. G. Campbell

Will the Government do more to point out to this Committee that its decision on Gibraltar was contradictory to the principle which it usually voices so vocally about self-determination?

Mr. Rodgers

That was said very clearly. It was said by my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary and repeated many times in the course of the debates in the Fourth Committee before Christmas.