§ Lord Aveburyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What reply they have received to the representations made by the British High Commissioner in Lilongwe concerning the circumstances in which Orton and Vera Chirwa are detained, with particular reference to the reported use of leg irons on Mr. Chirwa: the lack of medical care afforded to them; the poor quality of the food they are given and the denial of family visits; and if no satisfactory reply has been received, whether they will suspend all aid to Malawi.
The Earl of CaithnessThe Malawian authorities have not yet replied to the expressions of concern made by the High Commissioner. They have, however, undertaken to consider carefully the points raised. I refer the noble Lord to my answer of 20th November 1991 (col.WA 65) on the basis for determining aid to Malawi.