§ Mr. Humeasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement outlining the proposals he has made to the European Commission in respect of Northern Ireland under the non-quota programme for the development of new economic activities in areas affected by the restructuring of the textile industry; and what considerations the Government took account of in formulating these proposals.
§ Mr. TrippierThe European Commission is currently considering the United Kingdom's proposed programmes under the non-quota section of the European regional development fund.
I understand that decisions are expected shortly. Announcements concerning the measures to be introduced in the qualifying areas of the United Kingdom, including Northern Ireland, will be made as soon as the Commission's decision is known.
§ Mr. Humeasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much of the money allocated to Northern Ireland under the non-quota programme for the development of new economic activities in areas affected by the restructuring of the textile industry will be designated for each of the 26 district council areas in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. TrippierThe whole of Northern Ireland is eligible under the ERDF nor-quota regulations for textile areas, and no specific allocation on the basis of district council areas is proposed.
§ Mr. Pikeasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry which schemes submitted under the European regional development fund non-quota textile measures submitted by (a) Lancashire county council, (b) Burnley borough council and (c) North East Lancashire Development Association are likely to receive approval.
§ Mr. TrippierNo applications for aid have yet been invited, since the European commission is still considering the United Kingdom's proposed non-quota programmes, including that of textile areas. My right hon. Friend will make an announcement as soon as the Commission's approval, which I understand is expected shortly, is made known.