§ 4. Sir Anthony Meyerasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will list the measures of special assistance provided by Her Majesty's Government and by the European Economic Community and the European Coal and Steel Community for areas in Wales affected by steel closures or rundown during the past 12 months.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsThe full benefits of assisted area status and regional selective assistance, together with the support of the Welsh Development Agency and the Manpower Services Commission, have been available throughout. In addition, the Government have allocated about £70 million for special remedial measures, while the European Community has committed £78 million in 1980 in identifiable loans and grants.
§ Sir Anthony MeyerIs my right hon. Friend aware that the verdict in the report of the Select Committee on the Government's response to these closures is no longer appropriate in view of the successful efforts that he has made within the Cabinet to fight for better treatment for these areas, which are now well poised to take advantage of any upturn in the economy?
§ Mr. EdwardsSince coming into office we have spent, or are committed to spending, well over £300 million on measures to facilitate and encourage industrial development and job creation in Wales.