§ 36. Sir Nigel Fisherasked the Minister of Overseas Development what further plans she has for the economic development of the Falkland Islands; and whether these now include extending the aircraft runway to take international aircraft.
§ Mr. TomlinsonWe are providing funds for the reorganisation and re-equipment of the public works department, which is to begin construction of a road across East Falkland in September. A new school hostel is to be built shortly in Stanley. We propose to increase support of the grasslands trial unit and the possibilities of salmon ranching and inshore fishing are now being examined. A newly appointed development officer will take up his post in the autumn. There are no plans for extending the runway.
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§ 38. Mr. Michael Clark Hutchisonasked the Minister for Overseas Development whether she will consider supplying a ferry between the two principal islands of the Falkland Islands.
§ Mr. TomlinsonNo. As the hon. Member was informed on 22nd May—[Vol. 950, c.378]—we have recently agreed to the use of aid funds for the construction of a road between Stanley and Darwin. This is likely to be completed in 1980–81, and any consideration of the provision of a ferry service before then would, in my view, be premature.
§ 42. Mr. James Johnsonasked the Minister of Overseas Development whether she has plans to improve the telephone system within the Falkland Islands.
§ Mr. TomlinsonThe Falkland Islands Government are at present reconsidering a request which they made last year for improvements in the radio-telecommunications system. As soon as they come up with a new request we shall see what we can do to assist them.