CONFIDENTIAL
ANNEX IX
NATIONAL LIBERATION MOVEMENTS (NLMs)
The UK fully endorses the principle of self-determination for colonial peoples and does not object to members of NLMS recognised by the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) participating in United Nations meetings as observers for items of direct concern to them. We do not object to the provision of assistance to NIMs which falls within the sphere of humanitarian assistance to refugees.
2.
While the UK retains responsibility for Rhodesia, which is still legally a British colony, we do not accept that any other body has any particular standing to represent Rhodesia in this question. The decision of the OAU to afford recognition to the Patriotic Front was questioned by a number of OAU States.
It was, however, made clear that this recognition is in the context of the armed struggle in Rhodesia. HMG continue to treat all the nationalist movements, involved in the Rhodesian dispute, on an equal basis. The likelihood is that, at this session of the Executive Committee, the Patriotic Front will be represented by an "observer" as was the case last year.
3. The delegation should refer to the FCO for instructions if the Executive Committee is required to take any decisions concerning attendance of NLMs as observers.
CONFIDENTIAL