HC Deb 31 January 1956 vol 548 cc753-4
43. Mr. Peyton

asked the President of the Board of Trade what mention was made of Gibraltar during the recent Anglo-Spanish trade talks.

Mr. Low

The attention of the Spanish delegation was drawn during the talks to the question of permits for the export of Spanish fruit to Gibraltar. They stated that no such permits had been refused or delayed in 1955 and that their authorities would continue to facilitate the export of Spanish goods to all dependent overseas territories of the United Kingdom.

Mr. Peyton

Does my hon. Friend realise that the information given by the Spanish officials does not coincide with the information reaching this country from Gibraltar? Does he realise that there is increasing disappointment and discontent in Gibraltar at the continued obstinacy of the Spanish Government in restricting quite unreasonably trade and travel? Does he not think the time has come when the attitude of Her Majesty's Government towards Spanish trade should be modified, in view of the attitude of the Spanish Government?

Mr. Low

On the question of fruit, if my hon. Friend has any information contrary to what I have said, I hope he will give it to me. I had made inquiries prior to my statement. Questions of travel have been taken up in the past and are best taken up through diplomatic channels, and that is a matter for the Foreign Secretary.