§ 32. Mr. Kirkwoodasked the Paymaster General what cash has been received in the past 12 months from European Community funds to assist in creating new employment opportunities; and how these moneys have been disbursed.
§ Mr. LeeDuring the calendar year 1986 new allocations totalling some £34 million have been approved under the European social fund (ESF) for projects in the United Kingdom taking place in 1986 specifically related to employment creation. In addition, a further £246 million has been approved for other, mainly training, projects in the United Kingdom which are also helping to create new employment opportunities. ESF funds are paid to the sponsors of the particular projects for which assistance is sought. Apart from social fund support, the United Kingdom also receives considerable assistance under the European regional development fund towards projects which help to increase overall employment opportunities.