§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs at what cost to Government funds Mr. Bill Barlow of the British Telecom business planning strategy department at Cambridge and Mr. Henry Buist from National Networks Special Services flew out and back to work for Teleconsult in the Falklands; what is the cost of their assessment of a telephone service in the Falklands; what is their estimate of the cost of the actual telephone service; what is the cost of their use of light aircraft and helicopters; and if he will arrange for a copy of their report to be placed in the Library.
§ Mr. RentonThe total cost of the feasibility study of developing an internal telecommunications system which was carried out by British Teleconsult on behalf of the Falklands Islands Government was £25,000, including £1,800 and £200 for external and internal flights respectively. The estimated capital cost of implementing the recommendations, which cover improved communications links with outlying settlements as well as the provision of an automatic telephone exchange and new distribution network within Stanley, is £785,000.
I am arranging for a copy of the report to be placed in the Library of the House.