HC Deb 22 April 1971 vol 815 cc1361-2
Q8. Mr. Rose

asked the Prime Minister whether he will now make a further statement on his negotiations with Mr. Ian Smith.

The Prime Minister

As the House knows, exploratory exchanges are continuing. The House will be informed when there is something of substance to report.

Mr. Rose

Will the Prime Minister give an unequivocal undertaking that there will be no departure from the five principles laid down by his right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary during the period of office of the last Conservative Government and indicate whether there has been any change of heart whatsoever on the part of the Smith régime?

The Prime Minister

These exploratory exchanges are being carried out, as the House already knows, on the basis of the five principles. It is right that such exchanges should continue until there is something of substance to report to the House, and we shall then report it.