HC Deb 22 January 1948 vol 446 cc347-8
1. Squadron-Leader Kinghorn

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what decisions were taken during the recent discussions between His Majesty's Government and representatives of the Government of Southern Rhodesia about plans to ease the congestion of Southern Rhodesian traffic through the port of Beira.

The Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations (Mr. Gordon-Walker)

Following full discussion with the representatives of the Southern Rhodesia Government about the port of Beira, arrangements have been made for certain officials from this country to visit Beira at an early date to advise, in conjunction with the Portuguese authorities, on any immediate steps possible to relieve congestion at the port. The future position of Beira port and railway generally has also been under consideration and a delegation from Southern Rhodesia, accompanied by certain officials from this country and representatives of the Beira Works, Limited, have recently visited Lisbon for a discussion with the Portuguese Government. These discussions are being continued through the diplomatic channel.

Squadron-Leader Kinghorn

Can my hon. Friend give us any indication of any hope that during 1948 we shall get better facilities for berthing, and, if necessary, increased wharfage, at Beira as a result of these discussions and these gentlemen going out?

Mr. Gordon-Walker

It is difficult to promise whether there will be more wharfage—actual quay space—partly because it is under the control of the Portuguese Government, and partly because of shortage of supply. We are confident that the flow of ships and the arrangements for queueing them up will be improved in 1948.

Mr. Wilson Harris

Is it anticipated that the railway and port will be capable of handling coal exports from Wankie?

Mr. Gordon-Walker

No. I think it would not be possible to hold out such a hope. It would be difficult to handle coal from Wankie in any substantial quantities through Beira because Beira is already jammed up. If Wankie coal is to come out on any large scale some alternative outlet will have to be found from Southern Rhodesia.

Mr. Scollan

Have the Rhodesian Government ever considered the possibility of getting the coal brought through to Wallfish Bay?

Mr. Gordon-Walker

It is not for me to answer for the Southern Rhodesian Government, but in the discussions they have had with us that has been one of the chief possibilities discussed.

Sir Ralph Glyn

Has any new scheme been arranged for the extension of the port facilities at Beira?

Mr. Gordon-Walker

Yes, Sir. There was a joint technical inquiry by Portuguese and British enginers, and they made a joint and common report about the money and the materials which must be used in two stages to improve Beira. The Portuguese Government have, in general, accepted this report, but the question of making supplies available is, of course, very difficult in this world of shortages.