HC Deb 24 November 1980 vol 994 cc11-2W
33. Mr. Russell Johnston

asked the Secretary of State for Industry when he expects agreement on the rules governing the non-quota section of the regional fund; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. David Mitchell

Five regulations for the use of the non-quota section of the European Regional Development Fund have so far been agreed and were published in the Official Journal on 15 October 1980.

These provide for aid to steel closure areas; aid to shipbuilding closure areas; aid to border areas in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland; aid to counter the effects of the enlargement of the Community in Southern France and Italy; and aid to assist the development of energy sources in Southern Italy. The United Kingdom will benefit from the first three regulations.