HC Deb 05 May 1966 vol 727 cc1841-2
16. Mr. Colin Jackson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies in what ways he proposes to assist the Government of Gibraltar in the implementation of its study group plan for the economic development of the territory.

17. Mr. Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will make a statement about Government assistance for the development of Gibraltar.

19. Dame Joan Vickers

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will give an assurance that Her Majesty's Government will help the Gibraltarians with enough aid to fulfil their aspirations towards social and economic progress.

Mr. Frederick Lee

I understand that the Gibraltar Government are preparing development proposals after considering the study group's report. Until these have been put to me, I am not in a position to say anything further about possible British assistance.

Mr. Jackson

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind when this report is published the necessity for British Government accelerated aid to Gibraltar in order to make sure that never again is that territory dependent, as it has been, on Spanish supplies?

Mr. Lee

Yes, Sir. That is one of the points which we have very much in mind.

Mr. Wall

Bearing in mind that out of £1,250,000 given to Gibraltar in economic aid last year only £500,000 represented new funds and that the report of the Commonwealth Chambers of Commerce says that economic aid must be given quickly, will the right hon. Gentleman undertake to make a very careful study of this report and guarantee adequate support for Gibraltar?

Mr. Lee

We will certainly make a very quick study of it.

Dame Joan Vickers

As this is one of the territories most loyal and faithful to Her Majesty the Queen, will the right hon. Gentleman see that these people get sufficient to be able to carry on the way of life which they desire and not be dependent on Spain?

Mr. Lee

I agree with the hon. Lady about their great loyalty to this country and certainly I want to do everything I can to help in that matter.

Mr. Tilney

Would it not be wise to integrate the economy of Gibraltar with that of Great Britain?

Mr. Lee

Perhaps we had better await the outcome of the report.

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