HL Deb 10 August 1972 vol 334 cc1428-9WA
LORD MERRIVALE

asked Her Majesty's Government:

In view of what Mr. Rippon emphasised in the Commaniqu6 contained in the OFFICIAL REPORT of July 24, 1972, column 1300:—

  1. (a) What progress was made, during the discussions which took place last month in London, concerning the lifting of Spanish restrictions on Gibraltar; and
    2. 1429
  2. (b) If a comprehensive relationship between Britain and Spain is desirable, whether they will make the lifting of restrictions a precondition to further discussions on the future of Gibraltar.

BARONESS TWEEDSMUIR OF BELHELVIE

When the Spanish Foreign Minister was in London last month my right honourable friend the Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary again made it clear to him that the lifting of the restrictions against Gibraltar would make an important contribution to the creation of an atmosphere of confidence. The exploratory discussions will continue.