[
suffering inflicted on the civilian population of both
Iran and Iraq is deplorable. I hope both sides will
refrain from taking any steps which widen or deepen the
conflict.
We have to recognise however that the influence of
outside parties is very limited. But the Government
has repeatedly urged both sides to end their pointless
conflict. We support the efforts of the UN Secretary
General to open a channel for effective mediation.
Both sides should make full use of his good offices.
In accordance with our policy of strict neutrality we
have not supplied lethal military equipment to either
side. And we have certainly not supplied Iraq with
chemical weapons as was alleged recently. The
Government is keeping in close touch with friendly
states on development in the Gulf. Freedom of
navigation there and through the Straits of Hormuz is
of obvious importance to many countries. And finally
our missions in both Iran and Iraq are keeping a close
watch on the welfare and safety of the British
communities there.
Southern Africa
I have to say, however, that I am not hopeful about
an early end to the conflict. In contrast, I do see
cause for being more optimistic about developments in
Southern Africa.
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