South America (Hansard, 20 October 1976)

§ 10. Mr. McCrindle
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he or any of his Department's Ministers plans to visit any of the countries of South America in the near future.

§ Mr. Rowlands
There are no immediate plans for such visits.

§ Mr. McCrindle
Although it is currently too much to expect a ministerial visit to Chile, what plans does the Minister have for at least appointing a new ambassador to Santiago? Why do the Government continue to apply a different yardstick to our relations with Chile from that which they appear to apply to other regimes of which they may disapprove?

§ Mr. Rowlands
It is far too much to expect a ministerial visit to Chile in view of the strong feelings held by the Government and the great public feeling in Britain about the position in Chile. The hon. Gentleman will know why we withdrew our ambassador. We did so in the light of the deplorable treatment and torture of a British citizen. The situation has not changed.

§ Mr. MacFarquhar
Have there been any ministerial contacts with Argentina in recent months? If not, what is the state of the discussions with that country on the future of the Falkland Islands since my hon. Friend last came before the House?

§ Mr. Rowlands
As regards ministerial contacts with the Argentine Government, a number of Ministers have come to London. Indeed, there is a Minister present this week. They have been in touch with their respective opposite numbers. We shall continue to have consultations with the Argentinians about the Falklands. I have nothing further to add to what has been our position as regards the Falklands.