asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies how many proposals have been received by His Majesty's Government in Malta for the erection of a first-class hotel in or near Valetta; and what facilities His Majesty's Government are prepared to offer either financially or by the provision of a suitable site?

Mr. M. MacDONALD:

Six proposals from different interests have been received by the Government of Malta. It has been decided to let the concession by public tender. Tenders were called for on 25th June, and full particulars can be obtained from the office of the Crown Agents for the Colonies. The Malta Government are prepared to guarantee the principal and interest on debentures up to £76,000. A site on Government land is offered at a minimum rent of £100 a year.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the site is the site just outside Valetta or in some other part of the country?

Mr. MacDONALD:

It is quite close to Valetta.