HL Deb 28 March 1973 vol 340 cc1049-50

2.49 p.m.

LORD BROCKWAY

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether any negotiations are taking place with representatives or contacts of the illegal administration in Rhodesia; and, if so, at what level and with what result.

THE MINISTER OF STATE, FOREIGN AND COMMONWEALTH OFFICE (BARONESS TWEEDSMUIR OF BELHELVIE)

My Lords, Her Majesty's Government have not entered into any new negotiations with the Rhodesian authorities. We believe that the best prospects for a settlement lie in discussions between the races inside Rhodesia.

LORD BROCKWAY

My Lords, while thanking the noble Baroness for that Answer, may I ask whether she has seen the categorical statement by Mr. Ian Smith that negotiations between him and the British Government are taking place? Can she repudiate that, and can she say that the British Government are still standing by the Five Principles which have been endorsed by the previous Government and her Government?

BARONESS TWEEDSMUIR OF BELHELVIE

My Lords, the answer to both parts of the noble Lord's question is, Yes.

LORD BROCKWAY

My Lords, while thanking the noble Baroness, and welcoming what she has said, may I ask whether Her Majesty's Government will consider taking the initiative to secure a constitutional conference in Rhodesia, representing all Parties and all communities, with a view to securing a settlement of this problem?

BARONESS TWEEDSMUIR OF BELHELVIE

My Lords, not at the moment because, as my right honourable friend has said, he hopes that discussions will take place within Rhodesia between all those concerned.

LORD HANKEY

My Lords, are the Government aware that a great number of people would be extremely glad if there were negotiations and if there were a settlement of this absurd relic of previous initiatives?

BARONESS TWEEDSMUIR OF BELHELVIE

My Lords, I quite agree. I think a large number of people in this House and in the country would like a settlement, but so far as direct negotiations are concerned my right honourable friend feels that we should give time to those within Rhodesia who have to live together, to come together.