§ Q3. Mr. Farrasked the Prime Minister why he will not arrange that on 1st August, 1966, when the Colonial Office closes down, responsibility for Gibraltar is assumed by the Home Office.
§ The Prime MinisterAfter considering all the arguments, I judge the balance of advantage to be clearly against such a course, Sir.
§ Mr. FarrIs the Prime Minister aware that this is just the sort of firm decision which is required at the moment? It is not only desired by the Gibraltarians but it is needed by the Spanish.
§ The Prime MinisterWhen I was there last October, this was one of the objects being canvassed in Gibraltar. But I was very clear, despite the superficial attractions of the proposal, that the Gibraltarians themselves were very clearly against this suggestion. I therefore thought it right to make our position upon it clear.
§ Sir A. V. HarveyI recognise the necessity to bring about economies in some of the defence forces, but does the right hon. Gentleman think that this is the best week, in the middle of negotiations with the Spanish Government, to announce the withdrawal of half of one Coastal Command squadron from Gibraltar?
§ The Prime MinisterThe Coastal Command squadron in Gibraltar has no relevance to any relations with Spain because the functions of the Coastal Command squadron, as the hon. Gentleman knows better than any of us, were related to very different matters. But as long as the Spanish Government clearly understands our position on Gibraltar, I am satisfied that the withdrawal of the Shackletons makes no difference.
§ Mr. HeathCan the Prime Minister say anything about the discussions which are now reported to have broken down? Particularly, can he tell us what proposals have been made by the Government about the use of the airfield at Gibraltar by Spanish civil and military aircraft? Can he confirm that no proposal was made which would allow Spain 1438 to take part in the administration of Gibraltar'?
§ The Prime MinisterI have react some fantastic Press accounts of what is supposed to have been offered to Spain. I am glad to have this opportunity of denying many of these stories. On the questions raised by the right hon. Gentleman the Leader of the Opposition, I am sure that my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary would desire to put the House more fully in the picture before it adjourns.