§ MR. ONSLOWsaid, he would beg to ask the First Lord of the Admiralty, What is the present state of the works in the intended new Port and Docks at the Marsa in Malta, and when they will be completed so as to afford accommodation to Merchant Ships?
§ MR. CHILDERSSir, the Marsa, or extension of the harbour proper, is complete, though some disappointment has been experienced from a large area of it having a rocky bottom. This we propose to remedy by laying down the requisite moorings. The works at the north-west basin have been suspended, partly at the instance of the Local Government, pending the decision as to its depth. The proceedings of the Admiralty have been also retarded owing to the different interpretation placed by the Admiralty and the Local Council of Government upon the agreement as to the value to be assigned to the island property transferred to the Admiralty. I have, however, in concert with my noble Friend at the head of the Colonial Office, and with the assistance of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War, proposed certain terms, which have now been sent out for the instruction of the Governor at Malta, and which I trust will lead to a settlement satisfactory to the island community. No further delay need therefore be anticipated in the merchant shipping availing itself of the accommodation prepared for it in the Marsa.