§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development for what reasons a further study has been commissioned on the feasibility of an air strip on St. Helena. [123328]
§ Clare ShortA desk study undertaken in 1999 considered the regulatory and technical feasibility of operating an air service to St. Helena. It did not consider the engineering, economic, financial, environmental and social feasibility of developing appropriate facilities on the island. These issues will be investigated as part of the comparative study of air and sea access which is now being commissioned. The study will compare air with 411W future options for continuation of sea access and will identify the most cost-efficient permanent solution to St. Helena's international passenger and cargo needs.
§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development who will have responsibility for paying the cost of the air strip feasibility study on St. Helena. [123470]
§ Clare ShortThe cost of the comparative study of air and sea access will be met by my Department from within the £29 million development assistance package agreed for the 2000–01 to 2002–03 Country Policy Plan period.
§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development when the study on the feasibility of an air strip on St. Helena will be completed; and if she will ensure it is published. [123413]
§ Clare ShortThe comparative study of air and sea access for St. Helena is currently being tendered. Work is expected to commence in August. The study will take about 14 weeks. As the study is being undertaken on behalf of the St. Helena Government it is they who should decide if the final report is published.