HC Deb 27 April 1971 vol 816 cc234-5
Q7. Mr. Judd

asked the Prime Minister, following the most recent contacts between the British Embassy in Pretoria and the illegal Smith regime, what arrangements he has now made to visit Salisbury, Rhodesia; and whether he will make a statement.

The Prime Minister

I have made no arrangements to visit Salisbury.

I have nothing to add to the answer I gave to a Question from the hon. Member for Manchester, Blackley (Mr. Rose) on 22nd April.—[Vol. 815, c. 1362.]

Mr. Judd

Is there not a growing gap between the pernicious racism of the Smith régime and the five principles to which the right hon. Gentleman and his hon. Friends claim to be committed? If so, will he take an early opportunity to dispel completely the rumours of a cloak and dagger settlement with the régime in Rhodesia? Will he also recommend the Foreign Secretary to make it abundantly plain to the Portuguese Government when he next visits Portugal that we in Britain deprecate their deliberate thwarting of international intention in giving sustenance to an illegal régime which is in treasonable revolt against the Crown?

The Prime Minister

I do not propose to comment on any of the hon. Gentleman's remarks because we are carrying out preliminary exchanges and, as promised, when there is anything of substance to report, it will be reported to the House.