HC Deb 05 December 2002 vol 395 cc1032-3
3. Helen Jones (Warrington, North)

What estimate she has made of economic development prospects in Warrington; and if she will make a statement. [83604]

The Minister for Employment Relations, Industry and the Regions (Alan Johnson)

Warrington continues to benefit from the conditions of economic stability, high employment, low inflation and low interest rates, which are the hallmark of the Government's economic policy. The regional economic strategy illustrates the way forward for the whole region to achieve a sustainable and competitive economy.

Helen Jones

As my hon. Friend knows, Warrington needs to create more highly skilled and highly paid jobs. Will he take a personal interest in the Omega site, which is the largest industrial development site in the northwest? Will he also liaise with the Deputy Prime Minister to ensure that the regional planning guidance, which in its draft form would hinder development of the site, will in its final form ensure that we can develop it to create jobs not just for Warrington but for the entire subregion?

Alan Johnson

I know how important the site is, and I know of the problems that were raised during public consultation on the draft regional planning guidance. I will stay in touch with my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister, who I am sure will take those representations into account before formulating the final version early next year.

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