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.