§ Mr. J. Griffiths (by Private Notice)asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement on the latest political developments in Malta.
§ The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Alan Lennox-Boyd)As the House knows, the Prime Minister of Malta tendered his resignation and that of his colleagues to the Governor last evening. They are continuing in office pending consultations about the formation of an alternative Government. The Governor is seeing the leader of the Opposition in Malta today.
§ Mr. GriffithsWhile not in any way desiring to comment upon the constitutional procedure, I should like to ask the Secretary of State whether, since there 780 must be an election in Malta by or before March, and this election is quite likely to lead to the embitterment of feelings in Malta, Her Majesty's Government will consider, if the appropriate opportunity occurs, another all-party effort to try to reach a solution in Malta rather than let matters proceed to an election which may embitter relations between the Maltese people and ourselves for a long time.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI have always been anxious to have the most tranquil possible solution in Malta, but, at the moment, I think that the best step to take is to allow the constitutional processes to work themselves out.
§ Mr. BrockwayIn view of the record of the Maltese people, recognised by the giving to their island of the George Cross at the end of the war, is it not desirable that new efforts should be made to reach a solution of this problem? Would it not be better to use the £1 million which is being withheld in winning their good will rather than an expenditure which is likely to be much greater if animosity is aroused among the Maltese people?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI would refer the hon. Gentleman and, indeed, all hon. Members, if necessary, to the very long statement I have already made on this matter. That statement, I think, shows that it is not over £1 million that this trouble has arisen. It is important also that we should get this resignation, regrettable though it is, in perspective. After all, Mr. Mintoff did resign about four months ago, and he resigned also from his post as Minister of Works in the Labour Government of Malta when right hon. Gentlemen opposite refused to accept an ultimatum which he gave them when they were in office.
§ Mr. GriffithsWe do not quite know what the position will be or what will happen, but, if it is found impossible to form a Government in Malta, will the Colonial Secretary, before any other step is taken, make a further statement and consult the House?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI could not answer a hypothetical question of that kind.