§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Defence if, in view of the further postponement of the lifting of restrictions on Gibraltar by the Spanish Government and its likely effect on the Gilbraltarian economy, he will now reverse his earlier decision to close the Gibraltar dockyard in March 1983 and so maintain the associated employment.
§ Mr. Peter BlakerThere are no plans to reverse the decision regarding the closure of the Gibraltar naval dockyard in 1983 with preparatory action in 1982 as necessary. Consultations are proceeding with the Gibraltar Government on alternative ways of fulfilling HM Government's commitment to support the rock's economy. In giving consideration to the possibilities for future commercial operation of the dockyard, account will be taken of the fact that the Spanish restrictions will not be lifted on 25 June.