Gibraltar (Hansard, 28 May 2004)

§ Mr. Ancram
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he was able to resolve the issue of passenger cruise ships being barred from Spanish ports following visits to Gibraltar during his recent meeting with the Spanish Foreign Minister. [175565]

§ Mr. Straw
[holding answer 25 May 2004]:I told Senor Moratinos on 20 May that we regarded Spanish interference as unacceptable and illegal. I can report that since then there have been no incidents that have come to HMG's attention. I have written to him to 58W underline the need to avoid any repetition of these actions. We continue to seek a permanent solution to this issue, and have asked the Commission to look into these incidents.

§ Lady Hermon
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action the Government will take to secure compensation for the effects on Gibraltar of Spain's interference in free movement of cruise ships; and if he will make a statement. [175573]

§ Mr. MacShane
[holding answer 27 May 2004]:I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave my hon. Friend the Member for Chorley (Mr. Hoyle) today (UIN 175584).

§ Mr. Hoyle
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the answer of 17 May 2004,Official Report, column 675W, on Gibraltar, if he will make a statement on the meeting held with Spanish officials regarding cruise liners being blocked from entering Spanish ports after calling at Gibraltar. [175583]

§ Mr. MacShane
I refer my hon. Friend to the answer my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary gave to the right hon. Member for Devizes (Mr. Ancram) today (UIN 175565).

§ Mr. Hoyle
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs pursuant to the answer of 17 May 2004,Official Report, column 675W, on Gibraltar, whether compensation will be paid to shopkeepers in Gibraltar affected by cruise liners missing scheduled stops in Gibraltar. [175584]

§ Mr. MacShane
Our Permanent Representation to the EU has asked the Commission to look into this issue. Any decision to seek compensation would be a matter for the individuals concerned.