§ 105. Sir G. Nabarroasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he is aware that the policy of sanctions against Rhodesia is causing damage to British exports to a traditional market, including the placing by Rhodesia Railways of a contract with Nissho Company Limited, of Tokyo, Japan, for 2,000 wagon bodies, equipment formerly supplied from Great Britain; what steps he now proposes to take to retain for Great Britain such contributions to the balance of payments; and whether he will make a statement on Anglo-Rhodesian trade.
§ Mr. BottomleyI accept that sanctions against Rhodesia have some damaging effect upon British export trade. But Her Majesty's Government are convinced that sanctions are the best way of bringing about the restoration of constitutional government in Rhodesia and a return to normal trading relations.
Under existing Exchange Control Regulations, equipment for the maintenance of Rhodesia Railways may be supplied by British firms provided payment is made in advance in convertible currency other than sterling.