HC Deb 23 May 1968 vol 765 c859
31. Mr. Tilney

asked the Minister of Overseas Development if he will give details of his plans to increase the hotel accommodation in Gibraltar.

The Minister of Overseas Development (Mr. Reg Prentice)

The Government of Gibraltar have accepted our offer of a grant of approximately £50,000 and an Exchequer loan of approximately £120,000 to enable them to provide assistance for the expansion of two hotels in Gibraltar.

Mr. Tilney

Is the Minister aware that if the tourist trade is really to be developed in Gibraltar another 1,500 beds are required?

Mr. Prentice

There are no plans at the moment in such a form that we are able to decide whether to aid them or not. There are no plans which are held up, but we are prepared to consider carefully any plans put to us.

Sir A. V. Harvey

In view of the time factor in providing extra beds, will the right hon. Gentleman consider the acquisition of a suitable liner such as the "Caronia", which could help immediately?

Mr. Prentice

I answered a question on this subject the other day. It is not my view that that would be a viable proposition, but I will consider any propositions from Gibraltar of that kind in more detail.