HC Deb 17 April 1975 vol 890 cc157-8W
Mr. Morgan

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will now appoint, if only temporarily, a consul or other official of equivalent authority, at Faro, Portugal, to assist in the protection of British subjects and British-owned property in the Algarve.

Mr. Ennals

In present circumstances I consider that the protection of British subjects and British owned property in the Algarve can be adequately ensured by the British Consulates in Portimao and Vila Real de S. Antonio.

Mr. Morgan

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made, or proposes to make, to the Portuguese Government for the purpose of enabling British firms to send their moveable equipment out of Portugal if and when they wish to do so.

Mr. Ennals

None. I know of no difficulties on this score. The Portuguese Government have made clear that their plans include a rôle for foreign investment. I hope that British companies will be able and willing to continue to play a constructive part in the development of Portugal.

Mr. Morgan

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made, or proposes to make, to the Portuguese Government for the purpose of ensuring, as far as is possible in the circumstances, that British-owned real property in Portugal is not subjected to destruction or vandalism.

Mr. Ennals

Her Majesty's Ambassador in Lisbon is in close touch with the Portuguese Government, who are aware of their responsibilities in these matters.