Namibia (Hansard, 31 October 1979)

§ 2. Mr. Hooley
asked the Lord Privy Seal what further initiatives he proposes to take, in concert with other Western countries, to bring about the full independence of Namibia in accordance with United Nations resolutions.

§ The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. Richard Luce)
Her Majesty's Government continue to work closely with their partners in the Five for implementation of the existing United Nations plan. Our efforts at present are concentrated on securing agreement of the parties to the establishment of a demilitarised zone on the northern border of Namibia in order to enhance security during the transition to independence.

§ Mr. Hooley
These discussions have lasted for more than two years. Is the hon. Gentleman aware that that delay is leading to increased hardship for the people of Namibia and repeated savage incursions into Angola by South African regular forces?

§ Mr. Luce
The hon. Gentleman is familiar with the problems of Namibia and will know that earlier this year there was an impasse on one problem only with regard to the United Nations' proposals, and that was the interpretation of the proposals on security. The group of five Western nations, in conjunction with the United Nations, have been working as vigorously as possible to put forward proposals for demilitarised zones, in the hope of overcoming those anxieties.

§ Mr. Latham
Will my hon. Friend confirm that the five demarcheé powers, including the United Kingdom, do not accept the United Nations assumption that SWAPO is the sole legal Government of Namibia?

§ Mr. Luce
It is the Government's view that it is for the people of Namibia to determine who should be their political representatives and who should form a Government in their country? It is up to SWAPO to play its part in any elections that may be held under United Nations supervision.

§ Mr. Rowlands
Surely the actions of the South African Government have not contributed to solving the outstanding issues that are preventing a settlement. What representations are the Government making to the South African authorities that they should not take actions that make it difficult to achieve the settlement that we all want?

§ Mr. Luce
If the hon. Gentleman is referring to military action, I must tell him that we condemn any form of military activity, from any side. In the past we have made representations to all sides to exercise military restraint, and we continue to urge them to do so.