wfn.org | PRINCESS AND LANDMINES

[Audrey Whitefield <a.whitefield@quest.org.uk>]

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Feb. 14, 1997
ANGLICAN COMMUNION NEWS SERVICE
Canon Jim Rosenthal, Director of Communications
Anglican Communion Office
London, England

[97.2.2.2]

ENGLAND: PRINCESS OF WALES SPEAKS OUT ON LANDMINES

(ACNS) Diana, Princess of Wales,  highlighted the devastating effects of
landmines on a recent visit to Angola. The Princess visited the country
on
behalf of the Red Cross and had her visit recorded by the world's press
and
media.  On arrival in Angola she explained her role: "I hope that by
working together in the next few days we shall focus world attention on
this vital but until now largely neglected issue."

Angola is still suffering from the after-effects of a civil war and has
one
of the worst child mortality rates in the world.  Landmines constantly
kill
and maim children and adults in the country. The Princess visited
programmes supported by the Red Cross and highlighted the suffering of
amputees. She also saw the world of the Halo Trust which works to clear
mined areas.

The  princess visit angered some British Government ministers. By some
she
was seen to be going against Government policy by supporting the Red
Cross
campaign for a world-wide ban on anti-personnel devices. Although many
countries in the United Nations have a ban on landmines, the United
Kingdom
has so far failed to follow suit. "Britain says it agrees with a
world-wide
ban, but it still reserves the right to stockpile landmines. Christian
Aid
is calling on the Government to commit itself now to a total and
outright
ban," explained a spokesman for the British charity Christian Aid.