HC Deb 16 July 1941 vol 373 cc572-3
2. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs when the Spanish Government took over the Cape Spartel lighthouse installation; under what control this has hitherto been; and what action His Majesty's Government propose to take in the matter?

Mr. Eden

The Spanish Government assumed control of the Cape Spartel lighthouse at 11 a.m. on 5th July. Hitherto the lighthouse has been administered by an International Commission established under the terms of the Cape Spartel Convention signed on 31st May, 1865. His Majesty's Government have recorded a protest with the Spanish Government and reserved all their rights in connection with the Spanish Government's action. The members of the International Commission, including a British member, have also registered a collective protest and fully reserved the rights of the Commission and of the Governments represented on it.

3. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the Government have received any information from our representative at Tangier that the decision of the Spanish Government to cease using the Spartel broadcasting station was due to pressure from Germany?

Mr. Eden

I am not aware of the existence of any broadcasting station at Spartel, but if the hon. Member is referring to the Cape Spartel lighthouse, I would refer him to the reply which I have just given to my hon. Friend the Member for Ayr Burghs (Sir T. Moore).

Mr. Shinwell

Does the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that that is not a full reply? It does not deal with the point I raised with regard to the pressure brought by the German Government on the Spanish Government and the ease with which they accept the decisions of the German Government.

Mr. Eden

The hon. Gentleman will appreciate that I cannot answer for the Spanish Government whether pressure is brought on them by the German Government. I can only speak for myself; I cannot speak for other Governments.

Mr. Shinwell

Are we keeping a close eye on the Spanish Government and their manoeuvres?

Mr. Eden

I hope my answer showed clearly that that is so.