§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what are the criteria by which his department assesses the desirability of influencing the extent of inward migration into rural Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerNo such criteria are applied. Government policies are directed towards the establishment of economically viable communities within rural areas. Such policies are of substantial benefit in maintaining the fabric of these communities by sustaining local economies and creating jobs for the indigenous population, who might otherwise move away. The creation of new industries may of course require some skills which are not generally available within a particular locality.