HC Deb 03 December 1957 vol 579 c183
2. Mr. P. Williams

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement on the progress being made for providing a deep-water port in Cyprus.

Mr. Profumo

The plans and specifications for extension of Famagusta harbour are now well advanced, but substantial details have still to be settled before tenders can be invited.

Mr. Williams

In view of the increased strategic importance to Britain in the Eastern Mediterranean of both the island of Cyprus and the port facilities which are to be developed, is my hon. Friend able to say now whether the facilities will be capable of taking both civil and military traffic?

Mr. Profumo

As has already been explained in the House, the project is of prime importance for the trade and tourist traffic of the island, and that is what it is really for. However, the new facilities, when completed, will be a very considerable advance on what there is at present.

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