§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether there has been any progress in the establishment of an airstrip on St. Helena; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Garel-JonesWe understand that the private company planning to build an airstrip on St. Helena is currently seeking financial backing for the project. We welcome all measures which will improve St. Helena's transport links with the outside world. We have already financed the construction of a replacement ship which from later this year will continue to operate the Island's only regular link with the outside world, and we are considering other measures to reduce St. Helena's isolation.