To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what progress has been made on ensuring a more regular shipping service for passengers and freight to and from the Pitcairn Islands; and if he will make a statement. (269496)

The Pitcairn Islands Government has entered into an agreement with a contractor to provide a new, regular and more frequent shipping service to the Pitcairn Islands for both freight and passengers. The service will make eight calls at Pitcairn each year, including four direct from New Zealand carrying freight. It is expected that the new service will begin in September 2009. The new service will substantially improve access to the Pitcairn Islands.