§ Mr. Johnasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs at whose invitation the arms-purchasing delegation from South Africa has come to this country; and with whom it will have talks.
§ Mr. KershawThe South African Government took the initiative in asking if the mission, which was visiting Europe, could come to the United Kingdom, and we agreed. It is not an arms purchasing delegation but a mission considering the possible appointment of consultants to advise on maritime defence equipment. During its visit the team will hold discussions with the Ministry of Defence as well as a number of private firms, but Her Majesty's Government have not been asked for, nor have they given, any commitment on arms sales in relation to its visit.
§ Mr. Johnasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what meetings he has had, or proposes to have, with a South African arms-purchasing delegation; and if he will make a statement regarding these talks and their outcome.
§ Mr. KershawNone. I would refer the hon. Gentleman to what my right hon. Friend told the right hon. Gentleman, the Member for Leeds, East in answer to a supplementary question on 22nd March.—[Vol. 814, c. 22.]