HC Deb 20 November 1972 vol 846 cc900-1
18. Mr. Wilkinson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether, following his recent official visit to the People's Republic of China, he will continue to consult with the Chinese Government over policies towards the Indo/Pakistan subcontinent.

Mr. Amery

As I told the House earlier today, my right hon. Friend had useful discussions with the Chinese Government. We shall continue to keep in touch with the Chinese and we have since had discussions in London with the Chinese Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs on a number of subjects, including those of the sub-continent.

Mr. Wilkinson

Does my right hon. Friend agree that there are two issues of a humanitarian nature which could affect the long-term stability of the subcontinent? The first is the question of legal representation to those detained or awaiting political trial in Bangladesh, and in particular the denial of the right of access to a British Q.C. to represent the former Governor of East Pakistan? Secondly, will my right hon. Friend concert action with the Chinese to press the Indian Government to release over 90,000 Pakistani prisoners of war who have been kept in captivity for some 11 months since the conclusion of hostilities?

Mr. Amery

The hon. Gentleman will appreciate the realities of the situation and will no doubt agree that the two matters which he raised must, in the end, be decided by the parties concerned. We recognise the importance of the points which he has raised and I shall make sure that my right hon. Friend is apprised of them when he returns from The Hague.

Mr. Dalyell

What was said in the discussions about BOAC's entry into Shanghai or Peking from Delhi or Calcutta?

Mr. Amery

We informed the Chinese Government that we hope to arrive at an air traffic agreement and that we also hope to present them with a draft in the next few weeks.

Back to
Forward to