§ Sir John WheelerTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what information he has on restrictions placed on British journalists reporting on affairs in Jammu and Kashmir; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaudeWe understand the Indian Government have advised foreign journalists to leave Jammu and Kashmir for their own safety. We believe firmly in the freedom of the press, but in the last resort it is up to the local authorities to decide on whether to allow the continued presence of foreign nationals in an area of tension.
§ Sir John WheelerTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether the United Kingdom continues to support the resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir problem by the United Nations proposal for a plebiscite; what representations he is making to both the Government of India and the United Nations to uphold this proposal; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaudeBritain voted in favour of the various United Nations resolutions on Kashmir. Much has happened since, including the 1972 Simla agreement on bilateral relations between India and Pakistan. We believe the status of Kashmir can be settled only by agreement between the two sides.