HC Deb 07 February 1995 vol 254 cc236-7W
Dr. Godman

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, pursuant to his answer of 26 January, to the hon. Member for Aberdeen, South (Mr. Robertson),Official Report, columns 353–54, if it is his intention to create a priority partnership area in (a) Greenock and Port Glasgow or (b) Inverclyde as a whole; and if he will make a statement.

Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

[holding answer 6 February 1995]In announcing the outcome of the review of urban regeneration policy in Scotland my right hon. Friend noted that further consultation on the implementation of the new arrangements would be conducted. Once this process is completed, we plan to issue detailed guidance to local authorities and other local partners on the operation of the new arrangements and then enter into discussions with these bodies on a range of matters, including the selection of priority areas. An announcement will then be made, probably later this year, on the designation of the first priority partnership areas. The needs of Greenock, Port Glasgow and Inverclyde as a whole will be considered, alongside those of other areas, during this process.