§ 16. Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received concerning the impact of the LG project on the finances of the Welsh Development Agency; and if he will make a statement. [293]
§ Mr. HagueI have received representations from the hon. Member.
I have allocated an additional £20 million to the WDA for 1996–97 specifically to enable it to meet its commitments to the LG project. Provision for future years will be taken into account in my decisions on public expenditure in Wales.
§ Mr. SweeneyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has to increase the Welsh Development Agency's budget for 1996–97; and if he will make a statement. [2440]
§ Mr. HagueI have decided to increase the Welsh Development Agency's base programme for 1996–97 from £120 million to £157.1 million. This includes an increase in central Government provision of £25.4 million, of which £20 million is specifically for the LG project. The agency is also generating additional receipts of £11.7 million. Further expenditure will be funded by receipts from the European Union, which are estimated to be £4 million in 1996–97.