HC Deb 24 May 1972 vol 837 cc407-8W
Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will make a statement on the range of activities he proposes to support under the social needs grants legislation.

Mr. Channon

Under the Social Needs (Grants) Act (Northern Ireland), 1970, the Ministry of Community Relations is empowered to assist any project which is designed to relieve special social need in urban areas in Northern Ireland. The projects which the Ministry has assisted to date include playgrounds, play areas, pre-school playgroups, community centres, youth clubs, old age pensioners' clubs, holiday schemes, citizens' advice bureaux and the employment of youth and community leaders. My right hon. Friend will use his powers to continue to assist projects of this sort and will consider aiding any worthwhile project intended to relieve social need in an urban area in Northern Ireland.