Verwoerd Warns Britain And U.S.

Press, Volume CV, Issue 31029, 7 April 1966, Page 9

Verwoerd Warns Britain And U.S.

(N.Z.P.A. Reuter—Copyright) JOHANNESBURG, April 4. The Prime Minister, Dr./ Verwoerd, said last night he hoped the United States and Britain would not allow themselves to be drawn into “imprudent action” against South Africa because of Rhodesia or South West Africa.

Dr. Verwoerd was broadcasting to the nation after his overwhelming victory in last week’s General Election.

He said South-west Africa and Rhodesia were the only problems which had been created for South Africa in the past or in recent times. The United States and Britain were the only two countries whose attitudes or actions on these two problems could be of importance to South Africa, he said. The Prime Minister did not spell out the problems connected with South-west Africa and Rhodesia. World Court Decision Later this year, the International Court of Justice at the Hague is expected to announce its decision on the long-standing South-west Africa case. Liberia and Ethiopia have alleged that South Africa has violated its mandate over the former German colony. If the decision is unfavourable to this country then pressure is expected to be made at the United Nations for some action against South Africa. South Africa has maintained an attitude of normal relations with Rhodesia since it declared independence unilaterally. There has been a steady flow of oil from South Africa to Rhodesia, thus weakening the oil embargo imposed by Britain.