§ 13. Mr. William Hamiltonasked the Lord Privy Seal if he will make a statement on the representations made to Her Majesty's Government by the Nigerian Government on the need to take more decisive action against the South African policy of apartheid.
§ Mr. LuceWe share the Nigerian Government's view of the unacceptability of apartheid and the need to encourage change in South Africa. Our view that this is best achieved by a policy of contact and dialogue is well known to the Nigerian Government.
§ Mr. HamiltonWill the Government show some concrete evidence of this dislike of the evils of apartheid by publishing the names of those British companies operating in South Africa which are currently paying starvation wages to their employees? Does the Minister recognise that three of those companies—Lonrho, Trust Houses Forte, and a subsidiary of Burmah Oil—have director involvement of prominent Conservatives, including the chairman of the Conservative Party, the chairman of the 1922 Committee, and the husband of the Prime Minister? Does not the Minister think that those are despicable practices with which to be involved?
§ Mr. LuceI resent the way in which the hon. Gentleman has approached the question of the importance of the code of conduct. We believe that this is a modest and useful way in which we can use our influence. Questions of detail about the code of conduct must be addressed to the Department of Trade. It would be helpful 316 and constructive if people sometimes highlighted the examples of the British companies which are setting a lead in South Africa, instead of highlighting some of the backward companies. That would be a more constructive approach.
§ Mr. HamiltonOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek an early opportunity of raising the matter on the Adjournment.