HL Deb 22 December 1982 vol 437 c1173WA
Lord Merrivale

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are encouraging, and assisting in, the expansion of the private sector in Gibraltar; and in particular whether they see the need for renegotiation of Gibraltar's status within the EEC to enable it to function and develop as a new international financial centre, without possible hindrance or restrictions imposed by new members on their accession to the Community.

Lord Belstead

The Government encourage the development of Gibraltar's economy in all its aspects, We have, for example, agreed to provide assistance should a commercial ship repair yard be established in Gibraltar and we are supporting Gibraltar's 1982–86 development programme, which will help both the private and public sector of Gibraltar's economy. The Government have no plans to renegotiate Gibraltar's status within the European Community, which would not be affected by the accession of new members.