HC Deb 28 January 1948 vol 446 cc143-4W
9. Mr. Platts-Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to what extent Tripoli is still in British occupation; and under what provision and of which treaty or agreement was authority given for the reinstitution of the Mellaha airport by the United States air forces in Europe.

Mr. McNeil

Article 23 (2) of the Peace Treaty with Italy provides that, pending their final disposal, the former Italian Colonies shall continue under their present administration, which, in the case of Tripolitania, means British military administration. The United States Government some months ago asked His Majesty's Government for permission to use the aerodrome at Mellaha for their communications in the Mediterranean area and this was granted. The facilities are naturally limited to the period during which the British Military Administration remains responsible for the territory.