§ 14. Sir Nicholas Winterton (Macclesfield)If he will make a statement on the current situation in Zimbabwe. [1320111
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. Chris Mullin)The situation in Zimbabwe continues to deteriorate. Last month saw the closure of the only independent daily newspaper, and last week saw the arrest of up to 200 trade unionists for peacefully demonstrating. As this year's meagre crop runs out, half the population will depend on food aid. The Zimbabwean people continue to struggle with hyper-inflation, mass unemployment, and shortages of cash, food and fuel. The source of the problem is clear: bad governance and bad policies. We will continue to support all those working for peaceful change in Zimbabwe and a return to democracy, accountable government and respect for human rights.
§ Sir Nicholas WintertonI thank the Minister for that very full reply. Does he not think, however, that the disaster of Zimbabwe is going to become the forgotten tragedy of Africa, particularly as the Inter-Parliamentary Union—which has apparently decided not to hold its conference here next year—is to permit people on the list of those who are not supposed to travel internationally to attend its next conference? Is that not an absolute disaster? What will the Government do to save the people of Zimbabwe from further suffering?
§ Mr. MullinWith all due respect, there is not the slightest danger of Zimbabwe becoming a forgotten tragedy. Hardly a day goes by when the subject does not pass through my in-tray one way or the other, and we continue to pursue the issue very seriously indeed, as I hope I made clear in my original reply. As for the IPU conference, it was due to be held here but it is now not going to be, as a result of the Government sticking firmly to their policy.