§ 89. Mr. F. Noel-Bakerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has considered a scheme, details of which have been sent him, for the expansion of tourist facilities in the island of Cyprus and the creation of a Cyprus Riveria; and what steps he will take to realise this scheme.
Mr. Creech JonesI am aware that a proposition, couched in most general terms, has been made to the Government of Cyprus for the construction of a chain of hotels. The sponsor of the project contemplates that it would be financed by a large loan from Government sources and aided by exemption from all major taxation for a prolonged period. The Cyprus Government have given initial encouragement to the sponsor to develop his ideas but no details have yet been put forward such as might warrant more serious consideration.