§ 9. Sir G. Sinclairasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs whether he will make a statement on the results of the Robens Commission's visit to Malta.
§ Mr. BowdenI will consider making a statement when I have seen the report of the Joint Mission, of which Lord Robens is Chairman. I hope this will be completed very shortly.
§ Sir G. SinclairIn view of the added economic difficulties in Malta following the closure of the Suez Canal, may I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman will try to present a statement to the House before the Summer Recess so that this matter is not left in abeyance when Malta is badly in need of practical help?
§ Mr. BowdenI am aware of the difficulties and added problems facing Malta as a result of the closing of the Suez Canal and because their work in the dockyards is declining, and declining rapidly. I understand that Lord Robens will be reporting fairly shortly, certainly in plenty of time for a statement to be made to the House before the Recess.
§ Mr. MaudlingCan the right hon. Gentleman confirm that Her Majesty's Government are in consultation with the Government of Malta about possible means of helping to meet these new and additional difficulties?
§ Mr. BowdenYes, Sir. Certain suggestions have been made with a view to trying to get some work into the area.