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From 6 July 2006, a graphic version of the current edition is available at the Daily News Online web site.


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British MPs promise support
10 April, 2006

GABORONE - Visiting British parliamentarians have promised to support Botswana counter malicious propaganda waged by London-based non-governmental organisation, Survival International.

Speaking at a press briefing at the end of their visit, delegation leader Lord Malcolm Moss of the opposition Conservative Party said they were aware that Survival International was using dirty tactics to discredit Botswana regarding the relocation of the former residents of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve (CKGR).

However, he said, the British government could not act legally against the institution and other media houses in Britain because none of them had contravened any British law.

But he assured Botswana that Whitehall would engage in efforts to counter untruthful stories about the relocation policy.

Nevertheless, Lord Moss said the issue of relocation was being dealt well through the Botswana judicial system.

He said their visit was a clear indication of the British parliamentarians commitment to finding a lasting solution to the matter.

Lord Moss added that Survival International was facing a credibility problem if it continued to rely on wrong information in efforts to discredit Botswana.

Some former members of the First People of the Kalahari have launched a legal battle against government opposing the relocation exercise with the assistance of Survival International.

Lord Moss said he did not believe there was any other alternative policy than the one government had adopted.

In terms of Botswana law, Lord Moss said Survival International might be unjustified on the issue of mineral rights in the reserve because all mineral rights in the country belong to the state and not to any individual or tribal grouping.

He said Basarwa should not be an exception and must abide by the laws of the country. The Botswana government, he said, was doing a fantastic job by providing quality education and essential health services to Basarwa which were key issues on the United Nations agenda.

The group of six British legislators visited the abandoned Old Xade settlement and met with New Xade residents.

On economic matters, Veira Baird of Britains ruling Labour Party said efforts would be employed to aid Botswana in its economic diversification drive.

She said the delegation was impressed with the state of Botswanas economy and stability which were some of the pre-conditions for investment.

Baird said in view of the numerous business opportunities, they would try to use such arguments to persuade investors in Britain to come and invest in Botswana. BOPA  

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