HC Deb 03 February 1988 vol 126 c630W
18. Mr. Meale

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the South African Government to secure the grant of clemency in relation to the Sharpeville Six.

73. Mr. Corbett

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what instructions he has given to the British embassy in South Africa with regard to securing a grant of clemency in relation to the Sharpeville Six; and if he will make a statement.

75. Mrs. Ann Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action Her Majesty's Government have taken towards securing a grant of clemency in relation to the Sharpeville Six.

Mrs. Chalker

In February 1986, Her Majesty's ambassador expressed to the South African Government our concern at the death sentences and at allegations that some of the accused had been tortured. After their appeals had been dismissed last December, the members of the European Community made a collective appeal for clemency. We also supported a statement issued on behalf of the United Nations Security Council. We have since reiterated our concern direct to the South African Government.

23. Mr. Buchan

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he has contacted the South African ambassador over the issue of the granting of clemency in relation to the Sharpeville Six; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chalker

In February 1986, Her Majesty's ambassador expressed to the South African Government our concern at the death sentences and at allegations that some of the accused had been tortured. After their appeals had been dismissed last December, the German ambassador made an appeal for clemency on behalf of the European Community. We also supported a statement issued on behalf of the United Nations Security Council urging the South African Government to commute the death sentences on the six. We have since reiterated our concern direct to the South African Government.