HC Deb 17 November 1976 vol 919 cc1319-20
12. Mr. Townsend

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the Government's approach to the current talks on the future of Namibia.

Mr. Rowlands

Her Majesty's Government take the view that political parties including the South-West African People's Organisation must be allowed to participate in negotiations and in a single electoral process. The Windhoek Conference, although a useful source of advice, does not yet constitute self-determination.

Mr. Townsend

In the light of Mr. Sam Nujoma's recent visit to Moscow to purchase arms, the obvious links between SWAPO and the Marxists in Angola, and the split between the internal and external wings of SWAPO, will the Government reconsider giving educational and financial aid to SWAPO?

Mr. Rowlands

We give aid to individuals in Namibia as a result of requests from organisations, which include not only SWAPO but other organisations. I see no reason why we should deprive individuals of such aid.

Mr. Hooley

Will my hon. Friend accept that, if the Western Powers continue to fail to bring effective pressure on South Africa on this matter, SWAPO, Angola and other people directly concerned will seek alliances and arms elsewhere?

Mr. Rowlands

The best way of solving the problem is for South Africa to bring about an early and rapid movement towards a free and independent State of Namibia.

Mr. Ian Lloyd

Have Her Majesty's Government changed the name of South West Africa to "Namibia", and, if so, with what authority? Has such a change the support of the indigenous peoples of South-West Africa?

Mr. Rowlands

Namibia is a reasonably known international name for what in other language is South-West Africa.

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