Antigua (Guided-Missile Range)

Oral Answers to Questions — West Indies – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 3 December 1957.

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Photo of Mr Frank Allaun Mr Frank Allaun , Salford East 12:00, 3 December 1957

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the cost of constructing the guided-missile range in Antigua; and to what extent the people of Antigua were consulted.

Photo of Mr Charles Royle Mr Charles Royle , Salford West

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the stage of completion of the guided-missile range and test centre at the deactivated United States Army base in Antigua; and what arrangements have been made with the United States authorities for its operation.

Photo of Mr John Profumo Mr John Profumo , Stratford-on-Avon

With the agreement of the Government of Antigua, who were consulted by Her Majesty's Government throughout the negotiations, the United States Government were granted permission to establish tracking facilities for guided missiles in Antigua on the understanding that they would enter into a formal agreement similar to those already signed in respect of tracking stations along other sections of the Long Range Proving Ground. I understand that construction is well advanced and that the United States, who are meeting the entire cost of the station, expect to spend some $400,000 during the construction period.

Photo of Mr Frank Allaun Mr Frank Allaun , Salford East

Does effective control of the range lie solely in the hands of the American Army? Were the people of Antigua informed in advance?

Photo of Mr John Profumo Mr John Profumo , Stratford-on-Avon

The Government were informed in advance and the Government represent the people. Arrangements in regard to the use of this range are satisfactory to the Government of Antigua and Her Majesty's Government.