HC Deb 20 February 1978 vol 944 c473W
Mr. Woof

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what progress he expects to make in 1978 in discussions with the EEC Commissioner for regional policy.

Mr. Cryer

My right hon. Friend has at present no plans to meet the Commissioner for Regional Policy. Official discussions are, however, continuing in Brussels about the revised regulation for the European Regional Development Fund for the period to the end of 1980.

Mr. Woof

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what aspects of present United Kingdom regional policy will need to be changed to comply with the powers and procedures of EEC policy.

Mr. Cryer

The EEC Commission is required to keep under review all systems of aid in member States. In co-operation with us the Commission has begun a review of the United Kingdom's regional aid system. It will be some time before the review can be completed and the Commission make any demands known.