HL Deb 24 February 2005 vol 669 c225WA
Lord Morris of Manchester

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What further consideration they are giving to proposals for facilitating cruise ship visits to Montserrat, sports tourism, a safe harbour for fishing boats during the hurricane season and a recreation area for the needs of the local population. [HL1381]

Baroness Amos

Small cruise ships already visit Montserrat from time to time, with passenger landings subject to sea conditions. While some improvements to passenger handling and harbour facilities might be possibilities for the future, the present transport infrastructure priority of the Montserrat Government and DfID is completion of the island's new airport and re-introduction of fixed-wing air services this year. Some good recreation areas and facilities already exist, such as football and cricket pitches and two all-weather sports courts. The possibility of more facilities will be considered as part of development of a new capital town at Little Bay. DfID is also supporting work to develop Montserrat's excellent potential for more tourism.