§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what progress has been made towards establishing a new scheme for St. Helenians to enable them to come to the United Kingdom for training and work experience.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythI have been asked to reply.
In order to mitigate the effects on the economy of St. Helena of the ending of the dependent territories quota scheme and in recognition of its unique position in being the only dependent territory in receipt of budgetary aid, the Government have decided to introduce a special arrangement, on a pilot basis, which will enable St. Helenians to come to this country to undertake training or work experience at a lower level than is normally permitted. The new arrangement will allow citizens of St. Helena to spend up to four years training towards vocational qualifications or up to two years gaining valuable work experience, while working with British businesses or other organisations. The Government hope that the new arrangement, which has been welcomed by the St. Helena Government, will benefit individuals and contribute to the economy of the island.