HC Deb 22 November 1971 vol 826 cc253-4W
45. Mrs. Doris Fisher

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if the Government will make proposals in the United Nations Security Council or the General Assembly with a view to a solution of the problem of East Pakistan and the refugees.

Mr. Kershaw

If the United Nations can take effective action for a political solution in East Pakistan and the return of the refugees, we will lend our strong support But before taking or encouraging an initiative, we must see some prospect that such a move would effectively lessen the tension We do not consider that this is the case at the present time.

47. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what further discussions have taken place with India and other Commonwealth members on the situation in Bangla Desh and the position of the refugees.

Mr. Kershaw

I have nothing to add to the answer given to the Question of the right hon. Member for Wednesbury (Mr. Stonehouse) to the Prime Minister on 18th November.—[Vol. 826, c. 626–28.]

50. Mr. Barnes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he has taken to urge other Governments to increase their financial contributions towards relief for refugees crossing into India from East Bengal.

Mr. Kershaw

An international appeal for the refugees from East Pakistan has been made by the Secretary-General of the United Nations. We have given this appeal our full support, and have contributed nearly £15 million. Both in this House and elsewhere I have expressed the hope that other Governments would respond generously.

58. Mr. Moyle

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what approaches have been received from the India Government seeking the good offices of Her Majesty's Government to settle the dispute between the governments of India and Pakistan.

Mr. Kershaw

None.