§ 41. Mr. Kennedyasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will reconsider the current arrangements for regional aid, with specific reference to restoring full regional development status to the entire area covered within the boundaries of the Highland region; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. LangThe present assisted area structure was established less than two years ago after a comprehensive review of regional policy and the assisted area map. It is important to achieve some stability in the present arrangements and I do not believe that the time is yet ripe for considering any changes of status. Highland region as a whole continues to benefit from the extensive powers of the Highlands and Islands Development Board, and from access to the European regional development fund.