HC Deb 29 July 1998 vol 317 c280W
18. Mr. Bob Russell

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what discussions she has had with the St. Helena island authority about providing facilities for air travel and improved seaport facilities. [51339]

Clare Short

My Department and the St. Helena Government have agreed to undertake in 1998, a preliminary desk study into the basic technical and economic viability of an airlink to St. Helena. We have agreed to a feasibility study if the outcome of this desk study is positive. European Development Fund resources have been approved in principle for a major wharf improvement project at Jamestown. In the meantime, improved cargo handling equipment funded by my Department will be delivered later this year.