§ 24. Mr. F. M. Bennettasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies when it is expected that work will commence on the reconstruction of Ferry Point Bridge, Bermuda.
§ Mr. MaudlingResponsibility for providing funds for the construction of this bridge rests with the United States Government, but that Government have to date been unable to get Congress to vote the money. Her Majesty's Government 606 continue to press that this long standing obligation should be fulfilled.
§ Mr. BennettWith no reflection on the Minister, this is not really good enough. It is over 15 years since the American Government entered into a solemn pledge to build a bridge to replace land highways that they had taken over as part of the Base Agreement. Since then, year after year, they have renewed that pledge but have always escaped the ultimate obligation by claiming that they could not get the consent of Congress. Is he aware that it is now five years since one of his predecessors, in answer to a similar Question, said that work was expected to begin in 1947, and when does he think that this promise will be kept? Is not this a bad example of a great Power failing a small country?
§ Mr. MaudlingI think that it is very disappointing that progress has not been made on this. When the United States Government say that they cannot get approval from Congress towards certain expenditure, one cannot help feeling a certain sympathy with them.
§ Mr. BennettIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.