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The department of international relations says reports that Britain spied on G20 delegates, including South Africa, during meetings in London in 2009, should be investigated.
Department spokesperson, Clayson Monyela says government had noted with concern the reports published by the UK's Guardian newspaper.
He says they do not yet have the full benefit of details reported on, but in principle they would condemn the abuse of privacy and basic human rights, particularly if it emanates from those who claim to be democrats.
The newspaper reported that Britain had used "ground-breaking intelligence capabilities" to monitor communications between officials at two meetings in April and September of 2009.
According to the report, British agents repeatedly hacked into foreign diplomats' phones and e-mails.
