§ 2. Mr. Huckfieldasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth 423 Affairs whether he will make a statement about the United Kingdom's future relationship with the Government of the Republic of South Africa.
The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. James Callaghan)I refer my hon. Friend to my speech in the House on 19th March about South Africa.—[Vol. 870, c. 872–3.]
§ Mr. HuckfieldI have read that speech. Will my right hon. Friend do his best to ensure that his staff in South Africa do their best to maintain contact with all strands of opinion, including bodies such as the Christian Institute and the National Union of South African Students? Will he do his best also to stress to everybody in this country, particularly the supporters of the proposed British Lions' tour, that the best way in which they can show their disapproval of apartheid and similar policies is to stop such tours taking place?
Mr. CallaghanAs regards the first part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question, in view of our fundamental opposition to apartheid and our intention to play our full part in the international community in seeking to end discrimination throughout southern Africa, I feel that it would be right for Her Majesty's representative there, and all others, to keep closely in touch with all strands of opinion in southern Africa.
As regards the British Lions' tour, I expressed my view on that when in Opposition. These sporting matches are ill-conceived when they are played against teams which are selected on the basis of race. I have no reason to change my view now that I am in Government.
§ Mr. WallWhatever our personal opinions of the internal affairs of South Africa, will the Minister continue to bear in mind the important strategic position of South Africa and its importance as a trade partner—I believe our fourth best?
Mr. CallaghanYes, Sir. I said in my speech originally that we often have to do business with people whose views we do not share and, indeed, may bitterly oppose.