HC Deb 18 November 1987 vol 122 c587W
18. Mr. Flannery

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what formal relations the Government have with the African National Congress; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chalker

None; the African National Congress is not a government.

47. Mr. McCartney

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on British policy towards the African National Congress.

78. Mr. Caborn

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on British policy towards the African National Congress.

Mrs. Chalker

We have called on the South African Government to take the steps necessary to create a climate in which genuine national dialogue can begin in South Africa. In keeping with this, we have urged them to unban the African National Congress and other political parties and to release Mr. Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners. At the same time, we have made clear to the ANC our view that its espousal of violence does not advance the cause of fundamental change in South Africa.

89. Mr. Anderson

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the policy of Her Majesty's Government with regard to future meetings with the African National Congress and the United Democratic Front.

Mrs. Chalker

We maintain a wide range of contacts with representatives of all communities in South Africa.