§ 49. Sir A. V. Harveyasked the Secretary of State for Defence when he intends to visit Malta.
§ Mr. HealeyI have no immediate plans to do so.
§ Sir A. V. HarveyDoes the right hon. Gentleman recall that a few months ago he said that he would do his utmost to visit Malta, a small and loyal island which is more than concerned about the future of its defence? Under the mutual defence and assistance agreement it has the right to be consulted. Will the right hon. Gentleman make every effort to show these people that he is anxious to be helpful in the future regarding their defence?
§ Mr. HealeyI can set the hon. Gentleman's mind at rest. In view of the considerations that he has mentioned, I took the opportunity to discuss some of these problems with the Prime Minister of Malta when he was here the other day. My colleague the Minister of Defence for the Army visited Malta and participated at one stage in the consultations, which are still continuing.