Sir, The decision not to pursue any of the private sector proposals to develop air access and other investment for St Helena (Mr Vince Thompson’s letter, July 17) was taken only after a full assessment with expert advice and had the full support of the St Helena Government. We judged that the approach we had investigated would present unacceptable levels of financial and other risks and uncertainties to St Helena and the taxpayer.
We assessed the proposal which Mr Thompson says had Civil Aviation Authority backing and concluded, after consultation with aviation regulation authorities, that it was not technically suitable.
My department is committed to exploring options for maintaining links with St Helena and work is in hand, including investigations of a possible airport site.
Yours faithfully,
GARETH THOMAS,
Department for International Development.
1 Palace Street, SW1E 5HE.
enquiry@dfid.gov.uk
June 18.