§ Dr. TongeTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what representations she has made to Billiton plc regarding the social and environmental implications of their proposed Eastern Cape Zinc Refinery Project in South Africa. [49425]
§ Mrs. Beckett[holding answer 7 July 1998]: None. Environmental issues as they affect this project are primarily a matter for the South African authorities. However, my officials have been in touch with Billiton plc and understand that the firm has completed a full environmental impact assessment of the project in consultation with local groups and public authorities, 214W in accordance with South Africa's strict environmental controls. As regards the social implications, the project is to be financed largely by private capital and will create jobs and introduce new technology into one of South Africa's poorest provinces.