HC Deb 11 July 1974 vol 876 cc558-9W
Mr. Ron Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he has taken to secure the early release of Dr. Edson Sithole, the detained Publicity Secretary of the Rhodesian African National Council.

Mr. Callaghan

I deplore his detention and I have already urged that he be released. The Rhodesian authorities are in no doubt about our strong feelings about this and other detentions without trial in Rhodesia. Considerations of humanity aside, the detention of Dr. Sithole at this time is particularly ill considered. If there is to be any sort of peaceful future for Rhodesia, Mr. Smith must start meaningful discussions with African leaders rather than lock them up. It is not surprising that Bishop Muzorewa has said that the ANC will not hold further discussions until Dr. Sithole is released.

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