§ Mr. Kinnockasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on his policy towards recent events in South Africa.
§ Mr. CroslandI am deeply disturbed by the incidents in Soweto and in neighbouring African townships, and at the heavy loss of life. I extend my sympathy to the bereaved and to the injured. The United Kingdom supported a United Nations Security Council resolution on 19th June condemning this callous resort to violence against those opposing racial discrimination. Her Majesty's Government have consistently expressed their total opposition to the policies of apartheid which lie at the root of the disturbances. The recent events are a clear warning to the South African Government of the urgent need to change those policies which deny the majority of South African citizens their fundamental human rights because of their colour. Failing this, the prospects for lasting peace in Southern Africa are bleak.