HC Deb 13 July 1983 vol 45 c876
17. Mr. Knox

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the total value of grants made towards projects in Scotland by the European regional development fund since its inception in 1975.

Mr. Allan Stewart

Total commitments towards projects in Scotland since the fund was established come to £270 million.

Mr. Knox

Does my hon. Friend agree that these grants have brought considerable advantage to Scotland and provide yet another example of the benefits that Scotland gains from membership of the European Community?

Mr. Stewart

I agree. Since 1975 about 1,000 projects have been helped by the European regional development fund, assistance that has been recognised as valuable throughout Scotland, except by Labour Members of Parliament.

Sir Hector Monro

Is my hon. Friend aware that many of these regional development grants are not available for non-assisted areas? Therefore, will he have discussions with the Community to see whether this policy can be changed to concentrate more on unemployment than on assisted area status?

Mr. Stewart

I note what my hon. Friend has said, but the ERDF is applied only to assisted areas so that help is concentrated where it is most needed.