HC Deb 02 February 1977 vol 925 cc221-2W
33. Sir Bernard Braine

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will pay a visit to Ocean Island.

Mr. Luard

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave earlier today to my hon. Friend the Member for Eton and Slough (Miss Lestor).

Sir Bernard Braine

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what are the terms of reference of the special envoy who is to go out to the Pacific to consult all the parties on the Banaban question; and when he will report.

Mr. Lee

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what are the terms of reference of Mr. Richard Posnett, the former Governor of Belize, who has been given the task of looking into the grievances of the Banabans; when be is due to report to the Government; and if his report is to be published.

Mr. Luard

In my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Birmingham, Handsworth (Mr. Lee) on 26th January I explained the purpose of Mr. Posnett's visit to the area. He has no formal terms of reference, and will report in confidence as soon as possible to my right hon. and noble Friend the Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office.