Commonwealth talks

In London, the Zimbabwe crisis was discussed throughout the day at a Commonwealth committee meeting called to discuss violations of its principles on democracy, human rights and the law.

Although British conservatives called for Zimbabwe’s expulsion, officials said it was more likely they would abide by South Africa’s view that the issue is best handled through quiet diplomacy.

A spokeswoman told IRIN that although Zimbabwe was not officially on the agenda, the talks moved beyond Pakistan, Gambia and Sierra Leone “because this is an issue foremost in everyone’s minds and dominating the news media”.

But British Foreign Secretary, Robin Cook, said in a statement he hoped the Commonwealth would bring collective pressure to bear on President Mugabe. He ruled out economic sanctions or suspension from the Commonwealth, but hinted that could change if President Mugabe failed to hold elections.