§ 4. Mr. Doddsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty on what date discussions commenced in respect of the proposal to allocate oil bunkerage space from Government installations in Gibraltar for commercial purposes and what decision has been reached.
§ Mr. Wingfield DigbyDiscussions with the commercial interests concerned began a year ago. It became clear in May, 1955, however, that their participation depended on a decision being reached on the port development scheme as a whole, as a deep water berth was necessary for the bunkering scheme. As a result of the decision announced by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies on 1st February, 1956, the discussions were at once resumed. I can assure the hon. Member that we are ready to start work as soon as they can be concluded.
§ Mr. DoddsIs the hon. Gentleman seized of the fact that Gibraltar is battling for its economic life against the unfriendly attitude of Spain? Can he give some hope of an early decision, and is he aware that this matter was being discussed in 1954?
§ Mr. DigbyThe Admiralty is most anxious to help Gibraltar in any way it can. We have pushed ahead in these discussions, and have actually made an offer.