§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what was the final cost of the repairs and ancillary work to the Erskine Bridge following the accident involving an off-shore installation under towage; if these costs were recovered from the parties deemed responsible; and if he will make a statement. [84678]
§ Mr. Macdonald[holding answer 25 May 1999]: The final cost of the repairs and ancillary work to the Erskine Bridge is £4.25 million. The Scottish Office is committed to recovering these costs and has intimated its claim to those considered to be responsible. This claim will continue to be pursued.
From 1 July 1999, this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament. 192W additional grants available in the regional selection assistance priority pilot areas; and what proportion of the budget allocated for this purpose remains unspent. [84868]
§ Dr. ReidSince the Regional Selective Assistance (RSA) Priority initiative was launched on a pilot basis on 22 May 1998, 14 projects have been offered grant assistance of £1.9 million. This will lead to the planned creation of an additional 99 jobs for the residents of the 5 particularly deprived areas chosen for the pilot phase.
Funds are available from within the overall RSA budget and are not specifically allocated for this initiative.
From 1 July 1999, this will be a matter for the Scottish Parliament.