HC Deb 01 July 1968 vol 767 cc1090-1
70. Mr. G. Campbell

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what were the reasons for the abstention by the United Kingdom on the resolution on South-West Africa adopted on 12th June by the General Assembly of the United Nations by 96 votes in favour, with two against.

Mr. Goronwy Roberts

The United Kingdom was one of 18 members States which abstained on this resolution. We were opposed to the provisions of the resolution calling for severance of economic and other relations with South Africa; nor could we support its other provisions which derived from earlier General Assembly resolutions on South-West Africa on which we had abstained.

Mr. Campbell

As the right hon. Gentleman will know, I am concerned that the United Nations Organisation should work as effectively as possible, having worked there myself for several years. But does not this decision and other decisions which the United Nations has taken recently show that a majority of members is not always right?

Mr. Roberts

The majority of no organisation, national or international, is always right.

Mr. Winnick

In view of the nature of the South African Government and the policies they pursue, is it not all the more necessary to make sure that the territory of South-West Africa is not permanently controlled by the South African Government?

Mr. Roberts

We are constantly studying the best way in which to solve this very difficult and legally doubtful question. I have already said that we are engaged in a study of the issues raised. Our friends in the United Nations perfectly well understand our efforts and we hope that in co-operation rather than in polemic this very difficult question may be solved.