§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commowealth Affairs how many times property on St. Helena has fallen forfeit to Her Majesty's Government; and if he will make a statement on the circumstances in which this occurs.
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryWe are aware of one case in which a real property has technically fallen forfeit to Her Majesty. However, under the relevant legislation the Government of St. Helena would have to follow further procedures in order to give effect to that forfeiture. The Government of St. Helena have declared that they have no plans to take these steps. I will write to the hon. Gentleman shortly setting out the legal background.