§ Mr. Whitakerasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether, during his negotiations with the Marylebone Cricket Club he was informed by them as to when they were aware that South Africa would not accept anybody they selected for tour; whether he was aware of Lord Cobham's information on this subject from Mr. Vorster; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Denis HowellMy discussions with the M.C.C. preceded my statement in the House on 30th January, 1967 to the effect that the M.C.C. would select the team on merit, and if it was unacceptable to the South African Government the tour would be cancelled. At that time the discussions between Lord Cobham and Mr. Vorster had not taken place. Since the discussions no further information on the subject has been conveyed to me by the M.C.C.—[Vol. 740, c. 34–6.]