§ 23. Mr. Ashtonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will make a statement on the imprisonment of David Kitson in South Africa and the petition signed by the members of the Trades Union Congress general council which he gave to the South African Chargé d'Affaires on 18 January.
§ Mr. RowlandsMy right hon. Friend saw the South African Chargé d'Affaires on 18 January, drew his attention to the petition, and urged the early release of David Kitson. He also expressed concern about the changes in Mr. Kitson's conditions of imprisonment whereby we understand that he will not be allowed further study facilities. The initial South African response disclosed a misunderstanding as to what was being sought on Mr. Kitson's behalf. This has now been clarified and my right hon. Friend awaits a further reply. We shall continue to press for more humane treatment of political detainees in South Africa and, in particular, for those individuals who have close connections with this country.