§ 1. Mr. Whiteheadasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he has had any contact with the Brazilian Government since the State visit of President Geisel.
§ The Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Mr. Edward Rowlands)There have been normal diplomatic contacts. In addition, the Brazilian Minister of State for Planning has visited Britain and my hon. Friends the Ministers of State for Industry, Agriculture and Energy have visited Brazil to discuss economic and technological co-operation.
§ Mr. WhiteheadDoes my hon. Friend recollect that while Her Majesty's Government were entertaining President Geisel recently in this country a deputation of hon. Members went to the Brazilian Embassy to protest about the lack of civil rights in that country? Will he ascertain at Government level whether representations passed to the Brazilian Ambassador were delivered to President Geisel and what response, if any, was made? Will he pass on the concern felt by this House over recent events in Brazil?
§ Mr. RowlandsI do not think that it is for the British Government to inquire about representations made by hon. Members or others. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister informed the House recently that he made clear to President Geisel the strong feelings that exist in this country on the subject of human rights.
§ Mr. NewensWill my hon. Friend say whether a contract to supply arms to 1418 Brazil was signed, or is about to be signed, as a result of the visit of President Geisel? Will he bear in mind that many of us are concerned about the repressive nature of the Brazilian régime and strongly oppose the supply of arms to that country?
§ Mr. RowlandsDuring the State visit some £330 million worth of contracts were signed or agreed, chiefly in steel and rail products. I know of no agreement that has been signed concerning arms.