§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will make a statement on the progress of the Historic Environment Scheme Notification within the European Community. [89469]
§ Dr. HowellsI have been asked to reply.
I understand from the Department for Trade and Industry that the United Kingdom responded in November 2002 to the European Commission's most recent request for information on the various heritage aid schemes. The Commission is still considering this response. The DTI believes the Commission has been given sufficient information to reach an early decision. Officials from the United Kingdom Permanent Representation are in contact with the relevant desk officer in the Commission and are monitoring progress.