§ 4. Mr. Doddsasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what progress has been made in the discussions concerned with the future use of certain existing wharves in Gibraltar; and what decisions have been reached in this respect.
§ Mr. HareNegotiations with the present holders of the lease of one of the wharves have begun, and it is hoped to reach agreement in the fairly near future. Consideration is also being given by the Admiralty to the conditions on which the other wharf in question may be incorporated in the port development scheme.
§ Mr. DoddsWhilst appreciating the excellent work that has been done by his right hon. Friend in regard to port development, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he is aware that this matter was under discussion more than twelve months ago? Why is it still under discussion when the port development scheme is out? How long does he expect 1161 it will be before Gibraltarians can have these wharves, as that is necessary for the whole scheme?
§ Mr. HareI do not think there should be undue delay. I think the hon. Member will he relieved to hear that I have been advised that the negotiations will not, in fact, hold up the implementation of the scheme itself, since they relate to the use of existing facilities rather than to the construction of new ones.