Saint Helena referendum, 2002

Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
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A referendum on building a new airfield or replacing RMS St Helena was held in Saint Helena between 21 January and 1 February 2002.^[1] Around 72% voted in favour of the airport, although critics claimed that the referendum was slanted in favour of this option.^[2]

Background

RMS Helena was the island's only connection with the outside world, but required replacing at an estimated cost of £26 million. The cost of the alternative option of a new airport was estimated at £50 million. The island's Executive Council initially rejected holding a referendum, but agreed to do so on 8 January 2002.^[1]

All Saint Helena citizens aged over 16 and based in Saint Helena, Ascension Island, the Falkland Islands and on board RMS St Helena were eligible to vote.^[1]

Voters were given the options:

I WOULD LIKE to have an airport on St Helena, with alternative arrangements being made for shipping.

I WOULD NOT LIKE to have an airport but would like to have a replacement RMS St Helena.

Results

References

Elections and referendums in Saint Helena
General elections	1963 1966 1968 1972 1976 ... 2005 2009 2013
Referendums	2002 2005 2013