We will make every effort to ensure that the graves of Australia's valiant war dead are afforded permanent protection

Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer

"If there has been a change of heart, if there has been a decision to rule it out then I welcome that very warmly because I've taken the view that none of those graves should be disturbed," said Australian Prime Minister John Howard.

Australia has vehemently opposed the project to build an airport near Chaulnes, 125 kilometres (78 miles) north of Paris, which threatened to unearth the graves of Commonwealth soldiers.

Newly-appointed Transport Minister Gilles de Robien said on Thursday that he was reviewing the decision made by Prime Minister Lionel Jospin's administration.

Objections voiced

"The first question we must ask is whether we need a third airport," he said.

"If it is the right solution it must be done. If it is not the right solution we will have to find alternative solutions like regional airports or other modes of transport," Mr Robien said.

Australia's Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, said that in light of the review, Australia would once again make its objections known.

"We will make every effort to ensure that the graves of Australia's valiant war dead are afforded permanent protection," he said.

The graves of 1,248 Commonwealth soldiers as well as the remains of 7,200 Frenchmen are located on the site of the proposed airport.

In December, more than 91% of the residents of the Somme voted against the project in a non-binding referendum.