HC Deb 28 February 1973 vol 851 c351W
4. Mr. Whitehead

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what contacts have been made since the closing of the Rhodesia-Zambia border between British officials and representatives of the Smith régime; and what undertakings were given on behalf of Her Majesty's Government relating to the border issue.

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

I have been in contact with the Rhodesian authorities on several occasions since the closing of the border. No undertakings relating to the border were given on behalf of Her Majesty's Government.

Mr. Whitehead

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs on what occasions representatives of his Department have visited Rhodesia in the past three months; and for what purpose.

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

As I said in reply to the hon. Member on 11th December last year, contact will be maintained so far as is possible with Rhodesian opinion of all shades. That, of course, includes the Rhodesian authorities, the African National Council and others. Details of these contacts must remain confidential.—[Vol. 848, c. 7–8.]