§ 6. Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what discussions 902 he has had with the Malagasy Government on the question of a British base or staging post at Aldabra; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DalyellIn view of the rather unhappy experience of British bases in various parts of the world ever since the war, would it not be wise and courteous to discuss these matters with the Governments of neighbouring States who may, at least in their own imagination, have some interest?
§ Mr. MulleyWe have received no representations on the matter from the Malagasy Government. If we did, we should be happy to explain our general policy towards Aldabra and the other islands, and we have made no secret of our ideas about the possible use of Aldabra. Until a decision is taken, any statement would be premature.
§ Sir T. BeamishWhen is a decision likely to be taken about the provision of a staging post on this island, which is of unique ecological importance, and is this a joint Anglo-American project?
§ Mr. MulleyQuestions of that kind should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence. They are not matters for the Foreign Office.