§ The Earl of Shrewsburyasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will now consider allowing other organisations currently excluded from European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) programmes—such as private sector companies and other bodies with an interest in regional development—to 7WA participate in the programme and match ERDF grants with their own funds on extra projects for the Black Country.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry (Lord Reay)There are no absolute restrictions or exclusions of the type mentioned. Indeed a number of joint public and private sector projects are receiving ERDF grant. However, in the selection of suitable projects for the limited assistance available, the Government attach importance to maximising value for money. This consideration applies equally to projects for the Black Country and projects elsewhere in the United Kingdom.