HC Deb 21 February 1979 vol 963 cc179-80W
Mr. Gerry Fowler

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the total sum at present in the Gilbert Islands revenue equalisation reserve fund.

Mr. Luard

The fund was valued at approximately A$56 million in August 1978, the latest date for which figures are available.

Mr. Lee

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what agreement has been reached, in the light of the United States of America's claim to sovereignty over the Phoenix and Northern Line Islands, at present part of the Gilberts, to transfer these islands to the United States of America before the granting of Gilbertese independence.

Mr. Tomlinson

No such agreement is contemplated. We propose that the Gilbert Islands should become independent with its territory as at present constituted.

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