§ Sir Bernard Braineasked the Lord Privy Seal what progress is being made with the development of appropriate wind-power generated electricity on St. Helena in order to reduce the island's dependence upon oil imports.
§ Mr. RidleyThe possibility of wind-power generation of electricity on St. Helena was examined by consultants in 1978, but at that time was found not to be an economic proposition. The matter was subsequently reviewed in the course of studies of power generation requirements by the Corps of Royal Engineers in 1979 and in 1980; it has made recommendations which are at present under consideration. It is not yet possible to say whether an economic scheme will be practicable.
§ Sir Bernard Braineasked the Lord Privy Seal if steps will be taken in conjunction with the Government of St. Helena to ensure that opportunities are provided for higher education for St. Helenian pupils of outstanding ability.
§ Mr. RidleyThe St. Helena Government have just submitted detailed proposals for a substantial programme of educational development phased over a four-year period. These proposals, which would involve considerable additional expenditure to be financed by Her Majesty's Government, are now being examined.
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§ Sir Bernard Braineasked the Lord Privy Seal whether, in the light of the impossibility of evacuation by air of patients needing surgical treatment on St. Helena, steps will now be take to ensure that there is a qualified surgeon on the island; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RidleyExperience has shown that the surgical work load on St. Helena is not sufficient to attract an experienced general surgeon on a long-term basis. Emergency surgery, and some simple routine surgery, is within the capabilities of existing medical staff and facilities on the island. Other cases are sent to either South Africa or the United Kingdom, where there are well-established medical links with the island. From time to time arrangements are made for specialists, including surgeons, to visit the island to deal with waiting cases.
While this is not an altogether ideal situation, the arrangements were endorsed by a distinguished British consultant surgeon who was asked to look into these specific matters during a three-month assignment on St. Helena in 1980.