§ Mr. VazTo ask the Prime Minister how many representations and from whom, she has received regarding opposition to her current policy in South Africa; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterI receive many representations from a wide range of people expressing both opposition and support for our policy towards South Africa.
§ Mr. VazTo ask the Prime Minister what public expenditure will be incurred on publicising the lifting of limited sanctions with South Africa in order to encourage wider investment in that country; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterThe Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, in a written answer to a parliamentary question on 23 February 1990,Official Report, columns 934–35, announced the withdrawal of the advice on new investment in South Africa which was issued in 1986. This was a deserved response to the constructive steps taken by President de Klerk. However, it will, as before, be for companies and firms to make their own judgment about whether to invest in South Africa. The Government will neither encourage nor discourage them.
The statement made by the Secretary of State announcing the lifting of the ban was released as a press notice. Copies of this notice were also sent to relevant associated bodies and United Kingdom companies with existing interests in South Africa.
The Department of Trade and Industry incurred minor administrative costs in doing this.