HL Deb 11 July 1984 vol 454 cc888-9

3.6 p.m.

Lord Oram

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

The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what action they have taken or propose to take in protest against the arrest and imprisonment on 9th June of 37 people at a barbecue near Windhoek in Nambia by South African Special Task Force Police.

Lord Trefgarne

My Lords, we made our concern known to the South African authorities shortly after we heard about these arrests. They have since been released. I understand the authorities in Windhoek have now confirmed that no charges will be laid.

Lord Oram

My Lords, is it not clear from the events subsequent to 9th June, which the noble Lord has now reported upon, that the people were arrested quite arbitrarily and without sufficient evidence against them? Therefore, will he accept my appreciation that the Government took action, as I understand it, during the period of five days, I think, when they were imprisoned?

Lord Trefgarne

My Lords, I am very happy to receive the accolade of the noble Lord.

Forward to