§ 36. Mr. NorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of whether the handover of power to the new democratically elected Government of Nicaragua is proceeding satisfactorily.
§ Mr. SainsburyPreparations for the transfer of power appear to be going well. The agreement of 27 March between transition teams clarifies some important points, notably on civilian control of the army. The agreement of 23 March between Contra leaders and representatives of the new Government on demobilisation of the Contras also gives grounds for optimism. We are, however, disturbed by reports that the Sandinistas are distributing weapons to loyal followers, stripping Government assets, depleting reserves, and voting for themselves privileges and immunities.