New Hebrides

Part of Oral Answers to Questions – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 24 July 1980.

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Photo of Mr Peter Blaker Mr Peter Blaker , Blackpool South 12:00, 24 July 1980

I really must say that I find the carping tone of the hon. Lady absolutely astonishing. It is entirely in line with the hectoring manner that she has adopted all the way through this episode. She should have gone along the corridor and talked to her right hon. and noble Friend Lord Goronwy-Roberts, who speaks for her party in the other place, who knows the New Hebrides, in contrast to the hon. Lady, and who has consistently supported the Government.

It is true that the French resident commissioner was sent to Santo 12 hours or so in advance of the arrival of the troops to inform the French settlers there of what was intended, so as to reduce the number of casualties. That was a successful operation. It was the right thing to do.

I do not know where Mr. Stevens is. There are conflicting reports. According to my information, his whereabouts are not known, although I have seen it reported in the newspapers that he was at the airport. I very much hope that Mr. Stevens will now be prepared to co-operate in negotiations with the New Hebrides Government. I do not think that this is a matter for levity. There has been a successful operation. The problems of the New Hebrides are serious for the people of the New Hebrides, even if the Opposition do not regard them in that way.

I understand that it is not intended to charge the rebels but to negotiate with them so as to reach an agreed solution to the outstanding problems. In my opinion, that would be very much in the interests of the people of the New Hebrides.

We do not intend that our troops should stay for long. If the New Hebrides Government should wish them to stay after independence day, next Wednesday, we shall be prepared to consider that request.

We have made an offer of aid to Father Lini's Government. I shall not give the House the details at the moment because the matter is still under discussion, but, given our resources, I regard the offer as generous.