HC Deb 28 March 1922 vol 152 cc1143-4
97. Lieut.-Colonel J. WARD

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, with regard to the international company for the construction of the port of Tangier, established before the War, in what proportions the Powers were interested originally; whether this company is still in existence; and, if so, what are the present proportions of the interest of the several Powers?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

When the company was originally formed, the proportional holdings of the various Powers was as follows:

Per cent.
France 30
Great Britain 20
Spain 20
Germany 20
Austria 3
Other Powers 7
The company is still in existence. The Austrian and German shares have been taken over by the Shereefian Government. Otherwise the proportional interest of the Powers in the company remains the same.

Lieut.-Colonel WARD

Does not the taking over of the Austrian and German shares by the Shereefian Government really mean that the control is taken over by France?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

I do not think I can add to the answer I have given.

Lieut.-Colonel ASHLEY

Is it not most important, in reference to the point raised by the hon. and gallant Member for Stoke (Lieut.-Colonel Ward), that France should not be given a monopoly at Tangier, especially in view of its nearness to Gibraltar?

Captain COOTE

Will the British Government take any steps to put an end to the anomalous position of the administration in Tangier?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

It is hoped that a conference in regard to Tangier will take place at no distant date.