HC Deb 21 February 1961 vol 635 cc45-6W
99. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Lord Privy Seal what action Her Majesty's Government have taken to ensure that the Security Council of the United Nations immediately undertakes a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Lumumba and the continuing disregard of its authority by Mr. Tshombe; and what assurances the Belgian Government have given of their intention to co-operate with the United Nations in its effort to avert further disturbances in the Congo.

Mr. Heath

Mr. Hammanskjoeld has proposed in the Security Council that there should be an impartial inquiry into the death of Mr. Lumumba. Her Majesty's Government fully support this and hope that the Congolese authorities concerned will co-operate with the United Nations to establish the true facts of this deplorable incident.

As to the second part of the hon. Gentleman's question, the Belgian Government, in a public announcement on 23rd January, reaffirmed their support for the United Nations effort in the Congo.