HC Deb 09 March 1983 vol 38 cc831-2
10. Mr. Proctor

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will list the subjects discussed during the visit of His Excellency Senhor Paulo Teixeira Jorge, the Angolan Minister of External Relations, to the United Kingdom on 10 to 13 February; and if he will make a statement.

15. Mr. Carmichael

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the result of his recent discussions with the Foreign Minister of Angola.

Mr. Onslow

There was a full and useful exchange of views both on bilateral relations and on important current international issues. The details of our talks must remain confidential, but I can tell the House that the questions discussed included the release of the British mercenaries imprisoned in Luanda; the possibilities for expanding the friendly relations that already exist between Angola and the United Kingdom; and the possibilities for progress in reaching a settlement of the Namibia question.

Mr. Proctor

Does my hon. Friend agree that the remarks made by the Angolan Minister while in this country with regard to Angolan mercenaries were helpful? I have a constituent in prison in Angola. Will my hon. Friend and other Ministers maintain the momentum so that the release of my constituent and others will be effected at an early opportunity?

Mr. Onslow

I agree with my hon. Friend that Senhor Jorge's comments were encouraging. His forecast that it might be possible to resolve the problem before the end of the year was welcomed by all those who are concerned with this problem. We shall try to get things moving forward. I do not want the House to feel that this matter should become the centrepiece of our relations with Angola.

Mr. Carmichael

Did the Minister discuss assistance in the removal of Cuban troops from Angola by the United States? Does he agree that that is wrong and against the spirit of resolution 435? Is not the independence of Namibia a matter for the United Nations and not Angola?

Mr. Onslow

The Angolan Government made their view clear to us and they understand our view. We believe that this is an opportunity to resolve a wider problem affecting southern Africa. It would be a great pity to let the opportunity pass.