HC Deb 23 May 1980 vol 985 c385W
Mr. Best

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will state the current measures being taken by the Government in expressing their dissatisfaction with the Soviet Government over the invasion of Afghanistan.

Mr. Blaker

Since my right hon. Friend made a statement to the House on this subject on 24 January—[Vol. 977, c. 655–660.]—we have with our partners tightened, on an interim basis, the operation of controls on the transfer of sensitive technology to the Soviet Union, and are continuing consultations about longer term arrangements. We have agreed with our partners not to offer credit below international consensus rates. We have maintained our pressure within the European Community for the abolition of subsidised sales of agricultural products. We have postponed or cancelled bilateral events which would have been inappropriate. We are also continuing to call on British athletes not to participate in the Moscow Olympics.