The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for International Development (Mr. Gareth Thomas)Following detailed engineering assessment and design work over the past 12 months or so, I have set aside a total of £1.9 million from DFID funds to repair and refurbish the Hill of Difficulty road and the jetty/slipway in Pitcairn Island. Preparations are now in hand, with a view to expected commencement of the work in November of this year. In addition to this assistance, we will continue to provide medical and social welfare support for the island community.