§ 24. Mr. Bill Walkerasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is satisfied with the proposed levels of aid to reverse the depopulation trends of recent years in Highland Perthshire; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Alexander FletcherThe Blairgowrie employment office area will continue to enjoy development area status and so to qualify for regional development grants and selective financial assistance. The remainder of the area referred to by my hon. Friend is due to become non-assisted on 1 August subject to the outcome of the current review. The criteria for the review include the effect of population changes and migration, and account will be taken of the representations which have been made on these matters by the Tayside regional council and others.