Mr. Robert HughesTo ask the Prime Minister what is his policy in regard to South Africa on(a) the need for transitional arrangements for the Government during the negotiating process, (b) the continued detention of political prisoners, (c) the implementation of the national peace accord, (d) the introduction of regulations banning the carrying of weapons at political rallies and (e) the proposal to give the white electorate a veto through a referendum on any agreement reached at the convention for a democratic South Africa.
§ The Prime MinisterI welcome the negotiations which are taking place within the Convention for a Democratic South Africa-CODESA. I have discussed them with President de Klerk and Mr. Mandela in meetings this month. It is for the South African people to decide on constitutional issues and any transitional arrangements.
We have urged the release of all political prisoners throughout South Africa: more than 1,000 political prisoners were released last year.
I welcomed the national peace accord when it was signed last year. Since then I have urged all parties to work for its implementation.
I welcome all measures designed to reduce the risk of violence.
The South African Government have proposed a referendum to obtain the views of all South Africans. The procedure for this is a matter for discussion in CODESA.
Mr. Robert HughesTo ask the Prime Minister what consideration he has given to the National party proposals published on 5 September 1991 on constitutional change in South Africa; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterI welcome the National party's intention to negotiate a democratic constitution which is non-racial and based on universal suffrage. These issues are being discussed in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa.