§ 13. Mr. Anthony CoombsTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on Her Majesty's Government's recent contacts with Angola.
§ Mrs. ChalkerThere are regular contacts with representatives of the Angolan Government in the normal course of diplomatic relations.
§ Mr. CoombsWhile welcoming the regional peace settlement, the withdrawal of Cuban troops from Angola and Angola's application to the international monetary fund, which are evidence of more flexibility by Angola in its attitude to the West, does my right hon. Friend agree that Angola is still divided between the Marxist PLA and the equally unattractive Jonas Savimbi who has recently been accused of human rights abuses? What proposals have the Government, either on a regional basis or through the United Nations, to ensure democracy and peace in Angola?
§ Mrs. ChalkerI am pleased to say that the President of Angola has played a constructive role in helping to get the 906 United Nations plan back on the road in Namibia. Having concentrated on doing that, the next step for peace in Namibia is to seek internal reconciliation for peace in Angola. We welcome the proposal for a regional security conference with Angola's neighbours. There is no doubt that we shall not see lasting peace in Angola until the parties come together. I have made it clear that a military solution in Angola is not possible. It needs to proceed towards a peaceful reconciliation between both parties.
§ Mr. SpeakerMotion under Standing Order No. 20 —Mr. Robert Hughes.
§ Mr. Robert Hughes (Aberdeen, North)indicated dissent
§ Mr. SpeakerPresentation of Bill.