HC Deb 16 December 1977 vol 941 cc481-2W
Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs to what extent the latest proposals made to Guatemala concerning the future independence of Belize were agreed with Mr. George Price; what new progress has been made in reaching agreement; and whether he will make a statement.

Mrs. Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a further statement on the situation in Belize; and whether he will confirm his agreement with the elected Government of Belize that no territorial adjustment should be made infavour of Guatemala.

Mr. Luard

Since the last full meeting in July we have been seeking to establish with the Guatemalans a basis for the next round of negotiations. No date has yet been fixed. Premier Price has been kept fully informed. Her Majesty's Government have made clear that no agreement will be made that is not acceptable to the Government and people of Belize.

Mr. Durant

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the policy of Her Majesty's Government in respect of supplying arms to countries which are close neighbours of Belize.

Mr. Luard

In considering sales to areas of potential conflict, a responsible judgment has to be formed in each case on whether it would be right to permit a sale or not, taking all the circumstances into account. As I have made clear in answer to my hon. Friend the Member for Kingston upon Hull, Central (Mr. McNamara) in the case of the contract for the sale of arms to E1 Salvador a specific assurance was demanded and received that the vehicles would not be used against the British Armed Forces in Belize.