HC Deb 27 May 1982 vol 24 cc380-1W
Mr. Parry

asked the Prime Minister if she will make a statement on her recent meeting with the Prime Minister of Zimbabwe.

The Prime Minister

I had useful and friendly discussions with the Prime Minister of Zimbabwe on 19 May.

Mr. Mugabe paid tribute to the work of the British military advisory and training team and I assured him that we would do our best to maintain this assistance at a satisfactory level. He also stressed the value of our aid, especially for land resettlement, and I undertook to examine the possibility of more flexible aid procedures.

Mr. Mugabe and I noted with satisfaction the growing volume of trade between Britain and Zimbabwe and discussed prospects for future expansion. We also exchanged views on important international issues, including the Falkland Islands, Namibia and the general situation in Southern Africa. Mr. Mugabe confirmed his Government's support for United Nations Security Council resolution 502, and I expressed our thanks for this further valuable example of Commonwealth solidarity in defence of the principles we are so determined to uphold.