Malta (Polaris Submarine Base)

HC Deb 03 April 1963 vol 675 c424

3. Mr. Brockway

asked the Minister of Defence what discussions have taken place with the Government of the United States of America regarding the establishment of a Polaris submarine base in the waters of Malta; and what information has been given to the Government of Malta on this matter.

Mr. Thorneycroft

None, Sir.

Mr. Brockway

While welcoming that reply, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he has seen the statement from Washington this week that American Polaris submarines are to be stationed in the Mediterranean? Will he give us an assurance that they will not be anchored at Malta without the consent of its Government and Parliament?

Mr. Speaker

That supplementary question is out of order, because the Minister is not responsible for that statement.