§ 34. Mr. Barry PorterTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what action he is taking to promote rural development; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyThere is a need for a better focus and co-ordinated action towards social and economic development in the most deprived rural areas of Northern Ireland. The inter-departmental committee on rural development will oversee Government policies and programmes in these areas to ensure the maximum impact of existing expenditure with due sensitivity to identified needs in the areas themselves. Opportunities for further action will be consulted. There is a determination to achieve rural improvement.