HC Deb 28 April 1969 vol 782 cc926-7
24. Mr. Barnes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what further soundings he has taken about the feasibility of an international ban on the supply of arms to Nigeria and Biafra.

Mr. Foley

Our discussions on this question continue to point to the conclusion that progress towards peace cannot be made by seeking an international arms embargo in isolation from a ceasefire and talks between the two sides.

Mr. Barnes

Does not my hon. Friend agree that the capacity of the Biafrans to offset the loss of Umuahia by retaking Owerri seems to indicate that this war may go on for a very long time? Why is my hon. Friend so negative about the question of an arms ban initiative, or is the truth of the matter that when he and the Prime Minister were in Lagos they agreed to step up arms supplies to Nigeria in exchange for a bombing halt?

Mr. Foley

I can refute the allegation about the visit of my right hon. Friend and myself to Lagos. Equally, I would not wish to speculate on the military significance of Umuahia or Owerri. We have stated firmly and clearly that we believe that this war should be ended by a political settlement. The Federal Government have offered that, providing the acceptance of one Nigeria is implicit in their discussions, all else can follow. It is to this end that we and others ought to be directing our attention.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Can the hon. Gentleman tell the House what is the present situation of the fighting in Biafra?

Mr. Foley

Other than that it is rather confused, no.