Anglo-Maltese Defence Agreement

HC Deb 24 March 1969 vol 780 cc1041-2

33. Mr. Wall

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the position with regard to the Anglo-Maltese Defence Agreement.

Mr. Whitlock

The Agreement with Malta on Mutual Defence and Assistance was signed on 21st September, 1964, with a validity of ten years. It remains in force.

Mr. Wall

At the time when the Government so ineptly announced the reduction of forces in Malta, the Maltese Government denounced the Agreement. What has happened to the Agreement?

Mr. Whitlock

It is true that at the time of the forces' rundown the Maltese Government complained bitterly that they continue to afford to the British Armed Forces the rights and facilities in Malta to which the Agreement entitles them.