HC Deb 11 November 1982 vol 31 cc235-6W
Mr. Luce

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what response he has made to representations by the Ugandan Government about British media coverage of events in Uganda.

Mr. Onslow

The Ugandan Government have protested on several occasions about the critical tenor of British media reports on events in their country, most recently in connection with a BBC TV "Newsnight" programme broadcast on 8 October 1982. In reply we have stressed that we do not interfere in the editorial freedom of the BBC or other media and that such problems must be a matter between the Ugandan Government and the organisation concerned. The Government wish to maintain good relations with the Ugandan Government and, within current financial constraints, will continue to assist the rehabilitation of Uganda's economy. The Government also deplore any advocacy of further violence in Uganda, particularly by Ugandan citizens enjoying the benefits of residence in this country.