§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assistance is being given by Her Majesty's Government to the encouragement of multi-party democracy and good community relations in South Africa. [30896]
§ Mr. HurdSouth Africa's transformation to full democracy is one of the most welcome developments of recent years. Britain's support for the new South Africa was shown by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister's visit last September, and by Her Majesty the Queen's dramatic state visit in March. South Africa will be warmly welcomed at the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in November, after 33 years' absence from the Commonwealth.
Britain is helping the new South Africa through promotion of trade and investment, strengthening of scientific, defence, cultural and sporting links, and through development assistance. We helped with preparations for the elections of April 1994, and will help with the local elections in November this year. I also welcome strengthening parliamentary links—including the visit by a delegation of hon. Members in April, and the plans by Madam Speaker to visit in August. I look forward to growing co-operation between Britain and South Africa in the years ahead.