§ Mr. Greg KnightTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry for what purpose Government money will be used to fund offices and staff for the Welsh Development Agency, the Scottish Development Agency, the East of England Development Agency, the North of England Development Agency and the South West of England Development Agency in California. [88586]
§ Alan JohnsonThe Department is responsible for providing funding for overseas representation in California by One North East, South West of England Regional Development Agency and the East of England Development Agency to carry out inward investment activities. The Welsh Development Agency and Scottish Development International activities in California are funded separately by the Devolved Administrations.
§ Mr. Greg KnightTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will take powers to ensure that development agencies do not use public money to open offices and employ staff overseas without parliamentary or ministerial approval. [88587]
§ Alan Johnson[holding answer 14 January 2003]I refer the right hon. Member to the answer given on 15 January 2003,Official Report, column 649W.