§ Mr. RichardsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales when details of the latest programme for the valleys will be published.
§ Mr. RedwoodDetails of the new programme for the valleys, launched by my predecessor on 1 April are set out in a brochure which I have published today. Copies have been sent to those Members in valleys constituencies. I have also placed copies in the Library of the House.
Under the previous programme for the valleys, launched in June 1988, 2,000 acres of derelict land were cleared in the biggest venture of its kind in Europe, 2.6 million sq ft of industrial floor-space was provided and £700 million of private sector investment was generated. In addition, 24,000 jobs were created or safeguarded.
My aim for the new programme will be to build on this success, to complete the process of restoring prosperity to the valleys area and to fulfil the aspirations of its people. The new programme has five key aims:
- to create more, better quality jobs;
- to improve training, education and transport;
- to improve the environment;
- to improve people's health;
- to improve the quality and choice of housing.
I expect total public expenditure under the new programme to exceed £1 billion.