§ John AustinTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent discussions she has had with the Government of St. Helena concerning improvements in transport services to and from the island; what further discussions she has had regarding a proposed airport for St. Helena; and if she will make a statement. [1785]
§ Clare ShortThe report of the "Comparative Study of Air and Sea Access" for St. Helena, which addresses the future international passenger and cargo transport needs of the island, has just been finalised. Copies are available in the House of Commons' Library. The study's findings are currently under discussion with the St. Helena Government. We have made it clear that we will support funding for either the cost of replacing the RMS St. Helena or the estimated capital cost of an airport and related infrastructure, depending on which is most cost-effective.
§ Mr. John TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement on the proposals of the St. Helena Leisure Corporation for the future of that island. [1684]
§ Clare ShortThe St. Helena Leisure Company has held preliminary discussions with the St. Helena Government and my Department about its proposals to provide leisure facilities on the island. At the request of the St. Helena Government, we have made available to the Company a copy of the recent report of the 'Comparative Study of Air and Sea Access' for St. Helena. We understand that the Company wishes to take account of the study's findings in further formulating its proposals to the St. Helena Government.
§ Mr. John TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development when the results of the comparative study of air and sea access to the island of St. Helena will be published. [1685]
§ Clare ShortThe report of the 'Comparative Study of Air and Sea Access' has just been finalised. Copies are available in the House of Commons Library.