§ Dr. Lynne JonesTo ask the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement on the effectiveness of the regional services organised by his Department.
§ Mr. LeighOne of the Department's objectives is to ensure that its policies respond to the needs of different regions and areas with special difficulties. It has, to this 553W end, a network of eight regional offices which are responsible for delivering a wide range of business support schemes and other activities, including work in support of inward investment, the application of European structural funds, action for cities and liaison with business support organisations for small firms. The regional offices are also the Department's main channel of communication with business, monitoring business developments and helping to shape the Department's policies for business. Their work is subject to regular monitoring against targets, ensuring that they contribute effectively to the Department's objectives. Performance targets for the delivery of the main business support schemes are published in accordance with citizens charter principles.