HC Deb 02 March 1988 vol 128 cc585-6W
21. Mr. Nellist

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations Her Majesty's Government have recently made concerning the trial in South Africa of Moses Mayekiso and others; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chalker

We made representations on Mr. Mayekiso's behalf in July and December 1986, while he was detained without charge. Now that charges have been laid and the trial has begun, it would not be right for us to make further representations at present. We are following the proceedings closely.

27. Mr. John Carlisle

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will consider withdrawing any existing sanctions made against South Africa.

Mrs. Chalker

As I told my hon. Friend on 21 January 1987, at column595, the restrictive measures we have adopted are designed to bring home to the South African Government the urgent need for fundamental, peaceful change. Regrettably they is no sign at present that they are prepared to take the steps needed to bring about such change.

31. Mr. Mullin

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the Government of South Africa regarding the death sentences on the Sharpeville Six.

Mrs. Chalker

After their appeals had been dismissed in December 1987, 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 serious concern direct to the South African Government.

57. Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent representations Her Majesty's Government have made to the Government of the Republic of South Africa regarding the Sharpeville Six.

Mrs. Chalker

After their appeals had been dismissed in December 1987, 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. The British ambassador has since reiterated our serious concern direct to the South African Government.