HL Deb 12 January 1971 vol 314 cc85-6WA
LORD BARNBY

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether, in the interests of economy arid logic, they intend now to discontinue the absurd and unproductive Beira Patrol; also thereby removing this annoyance to our ally and NATO associate Portugal.

LORD CARRINGTON

The Beira patrol is undertaken in response to a United Nations Security Council Resolution. It effectively prevents the shipment of oil to Rhodesia by the most direct route, through the port of Beira. The Government have already announced their intention of exploring the possibilities of a just settlement of the Rhodesian problem; meanwhile sanctions, including the patrol, will be continued.