Rhodesia

HC Deb 25 January 1978 vol 942 cc663-4W

14. Mr. George Rodgers

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he is taking to halt the flow of oil into Rhodesia pending the findings of the inquiry into breaches of sanctions by the oil companies.

Mr. Rowlands

Our sanctions legislation already makes it a criminal offence for British companies to be knowingly involved in supplying oil to Rhodesia. Any evidence suggesting that it is being breached or evaded will be rigorously investigated, and we shall continue to try to induce other countries to act likewise.

27. Mr. Molloy

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a further statement on the situation in Rhodesia.

34. Mr. Grocott

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs when he now expects majority rule to be established in Southern Rhodesia.

44. Mr. Kenneth Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Common wealth Affairs if he will make a further statement on the situation in Rhodesia.

Dr. Owen

I would refer my hon. Friends and the hon. Member to the answer I gave to the hon. Member for Louth (Mr. Brotherton) earlier today.

42. Mr. Rifkind

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will make a statement on the progress made by Lord Carver in his efforts to achieve a settlement in Rhodesia.

Dr. Owen

Lord Carver made visits to African capitals in November 1977 and January 1978, to discuss with the Rhodesian parties and with other African leaders various aspects of the AngloUnited States proposals, especially the military and associated arrangements for the transition period. As a result of these useful discussions, Lord Carver has developed considerably his ideas and proposals on these matters.

Mr. Farr

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the possible threat to Rhodesia from Cuban military personnel; and what numbers he estimates are currently stationed in neighbouring States.

Mr. Rowlands

We are unable to give firm estimates, but my right hon. Friend is concerned about any outside involvement in the Rhodesian conflict, which we believe should be solved through negotiation rather than by bloodshed.