§ 15. Mr. Barry Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Industry if, in view of the continued rise in the regional unemployment rates, he will sanction changes and increases in regional development aid and policy; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Norman Lamont:My right hon. Friend's statement on 28 June about changes in assisted area coverage took account of areas where there had been a marked deterioration in circumstances relative to the rest of the country. My right hon. Friend has repeatedly stressed that the Government do not intend to make further changes in this Parliament.