HC Deb 13 July 1977 vol 935 cc172-3W
53. Mr. Clark Hutchison

asked the Minister of Overseas Development if, in the light of new information recently supplied to the Department, the Government will authorise an increase in the length of the airfield in the Falkland Islands.

Mr. Tomlinson

I am aware of some preliminary research by the Falkland Islands Committee but its full report has not yet reached us. Meanwhile it is the Government's view that any extension of the airport would need to be based on a study of likely traffic and the cost-effectiveness of a larger airport. This study could be undertaken only when we know what the major economic developments are likely to be.