§ Sir John Biggs-Davisonasked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will announce details of the United States of America's plans to expand their facilities on Diego Garcia.
§ Mr. HurdAs I told the hon. Member for West Lothian (Mr. Dalyell) on 17 June 1980, the previous United States Administration consulted us about plans for a programme to expand the facilities on Diego Garcia. This programme involves numerous construction projects extending over several years. They include improving the services and utilities on the island, including refuelling arrangements, expansion of storage, warehousing, maintenance and wharf installations, and the upgrading of runway and other airfield support facilities to a standard which will allow use of the facility as required by a wide range of heavy aircraft including B52s. We have agreed to these plans.
The present United States Administration have confirmed that they intend to proceed with this development programme and are now seeking budgetary authority to set work in hand. Projects expected to start in 471W 1981–82 include the construction of a new airfield taxiway and parking apron to B52 specifications and the construction of extra accommodation for United States personnel. The Government welcome these plans to improve the facilities on Diego Garcia which fills an important role in the protection of Western interests in the area.