§ Mr. Ancramasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what resources he proposes to make available for the urban programme in Scotland next year; and if he will make a statement.
Mr. Milianasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what increases he is making in urban aid allocations in Scotland, in view of the announced increases in England. and in Wales.
§ Mr. YoungerIn 1982–83 the urban programme in Scotland will make possible expenditure up to £32.4 million, compared with the provision for 1981–82 of £26.3 million. This will enable us to sustain the efforts of local 337W authorities to improve services and amenities in areas of multiple deprivation. I am particularly keen that resources should go to community groups and voluntary bodies for projects which will provide new facilities and will enable local people themselves to play a fuller part in meeting the needs of their own area.
I hope that the programme will give local authorities the incentive to examine the particular needs of each priority area and to devise a response which not only takes advantage of the urban programme but which reappraises the priorities and effectiveness of services provided through the normal budgets of local authority departments.