§ Helen SouthworthTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she has received a copy of the Environmental Impact Assessment report for the Ilisu project in Turkey; and if she will make a statement. [2466]
§ Ms HewittWe have now received the Environmental Impact Assessment Report for the Ilisu project. A copy of the Report is being placed in the Library of both Houses.
I am very well aware of the great public interest which exists in this project, and the associated application for export credit cover from ECGD. ECGD are therefore arranging for a copy of the Executive Summary of the EIAR to be placed on their website (www.ecgd.gov.uk). Copies of the CD-ROM of the full report can be obtained by writing to Ilisu Project, ECGD, PO Box 2200, 2 Harbour Exchange Square. London E14 9GS enclosing a cheque for £5. ECGD will also be providing, free of charge, a copy of the Executive Summary.
Any comments on the Ilisu Dam project in the light of this report received by ECGD by 7 September 2001 will be taken into account by Ministers in their decision on whether or not to grant ECGD support for the project. Comments may be made in writing to the above address, or by e-mail to ilisueiar@ecgd.gov.uk.
A decision about export credit support requires very careful consideration. I shall therefore be seeking expert advice on the EIAR and consulting my ministerial colleagues, before taking a decision. Until this process is complete, we will not be commenting on the report.