§ Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations have been received concerning the flying of MPLA colours by the Concorde aircraft which recently landed at Luanda Airport; what steps are being taken to determine how this incident arose; what representations have been made to BAC on the political and commercial implications of its action; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord BalnielI have received no representations. But I understand that the British Aircraft Corporation has apologised to the Portuguese Government for the unfortunate and inadvertent use of a flag which it obtained in good faith from a commercial supplier. Her Majesty's Ambassador at Lisbon and Her Majesty's Consul at Luanda have also conveyed Her Majesty's Government's regrets to the Portuguese authorities.