HC Deb 30 June 1966 vol 730 cc2164-5
9. Mr. Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what constitutional changes are proposed for Gibraltar.

Mr. Frederick Lee

As the hon. Member was informed on the 18th November 1965, it is the view of Her Majesty's Government, which is shared by the elected members of the Gibraltar Legislative Council, that further constitutional advances are not at present desirable.

Mr. Wall

Is the Minister aware that what the people of Gibraltar want is an assurance that their children and their children's children will remain British and that this can be given only by a change in the constitution? Will he agree that the only alternatives are integration or free association with this country?

Mr. Lee

I have reminded the hon. Member that the present constitution came into force only in August, 1964, and the Legislative Council has itself expressed satisfaction with it. I am not unmindful of the feelings of the people of Gibraltar on the matter to which he has referred.

Mr. Maudling

In the continuing conversations with the Spanish Government, will the right hon. Gentleman confirm that there can be no question whatever of ceding any sovereignty in Gibraltar against the wishes of the local inhabitants?

Mr. Lee

That is more properly a question for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. [HON. MEMBERS: "No."]—Oh, yes, the question of relationship with a foreign Power is not for the Secretary of State for the Colonies, but we are not unmindful of the comments which the right hon. Member has made.

Mr. Maudling

Surely the right hon. Gentleman must be concerned with the well-being of people in the Colonies? Surely he can give an absolutely straight answer on this fundamental point?

Mr. Lee

The right hon. Member knows that I am in constant touch with the Chief Minister and Governor of Gibraltar. I am well aware of the opinions of the Gibraltarians and I have great sympathy with their point of view.