§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what advice he has326W received in relation to possible worsening of volcanic activity on the island of Montserrat; and if he will make a statement. [16977]
§ Sir Nicholas BonsorSince 18 July 1995, we have received regular reports from scientists from the UK and the Trinidad-based seismic research unit, which is monitoring the volcano 24 hours a day.
Montserrat remains on a state of alert and we have put in place contingency plans to evacuate Montserratians to the north of the island in the event of a partial eruption. Contingency plans also exist for a full evacuation of the island if it became necessary.