To ask the Scottish Executive when it intends to announce its decision on whether to extend its proposed review of Barra air transport provision.

I have listened to the representations of the Barra community and its elected representatives. I fully appreciate their concerns that a review completed by 30 September 2003 will not be able to assess fully, and in depth, all issues relating to air transport provision, including its impact on other transport modes. I have decided, therefore, that the contract for the Barra to Glasgow air service should be brought into line with the Scottish Executive’s other supported air services and that the service will be secured until 31 March 2006. The review will be undertaken in conjunction with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd. There will be a new contract from 1 April 2004 to 31 March 2006 and this will be the subject of a further tendering exercise.