Development Assistance Scheme

HC Deb 27 July 1983 vol 46 c1183

19. Mr. Kirkwood

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will consider establishing a new rural development area status as part of the development assistance scheme.

Mr. Norman Lamont

Assistance is already available to rural areas from the appropriate bodies in the different parts of Great Britain. The hon. Member's constituency, for example, can obtain assistance from the Scottish Development Agency.

Mr. Kirkwood

I thank the Minister for his reply. Is he aware that there is a growing body of opinion in Scotland that believes that the machinery available to the Scottish Development Agency is not appropriate to rural areas, whose needs are quite different from, but just as great as those of, the urban areas? Will the Government look at the problem again?

Mr. Lamont

?: That must be a matter for the Secretary of State for Scotland.