HC Deb 27 November 1969 vol 792 cc602-3
26. Mr. Donald Williams

asked the Minister of Overseas Development if she will make increased grants to Gibraltar to provide additional playing and sports facilities to assist the local population and to promote the tourist industry on the Rock.

Mrs. Hart

We have recently received proposals from the Government of Gibraltar and shall be discussing them in London next week with the Chief Minister of Gibraltar and his colleagues.

Mr. Williams

I feel sure that that answer will be welcomed by the Chief Minister and the Gibraltarians. I hope that this country, through the right hon. Lady, will give to the Gibraltarians all the help that we can at this time, and perhaps also some support for Miss Gibraltar this evening.

Mrs. Hart

I shall be in Paris this evening and, regrettably, will miss the great event, whether or not she wins. I sympathise with what has been said. Again in a former capacity I was much involved in the problems of Gibraltar at a key period. I am very much looking forward to our discussions next week.

Mr. George Jeger

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, during this past summer, Her Majesty's Forces stationed in Gibraltar have achieved marvellous results in improving tourist facilities and in the various work on which they have cooperated with the civil authorities? Will she ensure that whatever help is given by way of monetary grants it will not end that co-operation in a practical way?

Mrs. Hart

I am interested to hear what my hon. Friend says, and I should be delighted to hear more from him about what he has discovered on his recent visit. I think that we all take it for granted that co-operation with Gibraltar will not stop just at money, and we all desire to give every possible and practical assistance that we can.