To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what representations he has received asking him to reconsider his decision not to contribute to the European Space Agency's Columbus space platform programme.

Since 10 February, when my right hon. and learned Friend announced that the United Kingdom would not be joining the Columbus programme in the form then proposed, we have received representations on the subject from hon. and right hon. Members, interested parties and members of the public. In the meantime the European Space Agency has been re-assessing with NASA the polar platform requirement, and significant modifications to the target configuration are likely to result. Against the background of these developments, we are reconsidering our position in consultation with ESA, United Kingdom industry and users.