§ Mr. CrausbyTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what progress has been made in discussions with the Commission on the UK's proposals for a new assisted areas map; and what advice he can give to companies wishing to apply for regional selective assistance after 31 December. [104066]
§ Mr. ByersIn common with most Member States, the UK's new Assisted Areas have not yet been approved by the European Commission.
Payments of financial assistance will continue where the aid has been agreed under current arrangements before the end of December. In England, the Government Offices will, as a temporary measure, continue considering applications from companies with projects located within the new Assisted Areas map proposed in July. The Government Offices and, where appropriate, the Industrial Development Unit will undertake a full appraisal of such cases, but any offers will be conditional on confirmation from the Commission that the location is within the approved map and that the project complies with the 466W appropriate European aid ceilings for that area. Potential applicants are strongly advised to contact the relevant Government Office before proceeding.
I understand that similar arrangements are being put in place in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.