HC Deb 18 April 1989 vol 151 c184
Q6. Sir Hugh Rossi

To ask the Prime Minister what representations she has received regarding her recent visit to Africa.

Mr. Wakeham

I have been asked to reply.

Since my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister's return from Africa, she has received numerous congratulations on the success of the visit.

Sir Hugh Rossi

Does my right hon. Friend agree that the Prime Minister is to be congratulated on the part that she was able to play in Namibia, and that the decision, endorsed by Cuba and Angola as well as South Africa, for the withdrawal of SWAPO forces fully vindicated her condemnation of their cynical contravention of the United Nations plan and the Geneva protocol, and their attempt to dominate elections down the barrel of a rifle?

Mr. Wakeham

My right hon. Friend is right. SWAPO's initial action caused tragic and unnecessary loss of life. But the UN plan has survived a severe test. What matters now is that the proposed cease-fire should he made to work and that preparations should resume for free and fair elections. We are doing everything possible to help. The House will welcome the role that our signallers are playing in manning the assembly points in northern Namibia.