HL Deb 27 September 1976 vol 374 cc164-6WA
Lord BROCKWAY

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What action they have taken to prevent the airline AFRETAIR from breaking the sanctions against Rhodesia and whether action is proposed to be taken against Gabon who is alleged to have taken over the functions of AFRETAIR.

Lord GORONWY-ROBERTS

Following the submission of a Note by the United Kingdom to the United Nations Sanctions Committee on 9th April, AFRETAIR was officially dissolved on 5th May and incorporated into Air Gabon. Her Majesty's Government have, however, reason to believe that the airline is continuing its activities, possibly using the colours of another airline. We have therefore taken action to withdraw passport facilities from a number of British nationals known to be working for AFRETAIR. If Her Majesty's Government obtain evidence that Air Gabon or any other airline are acting as a cover for AFRETAIR then we shall refer the matter to the United Nations Sanctions Committee.

House adjourned at nineteen minutes before eleven o'clock.