§ Mr. Keyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will explain the institutional and functional relationship between the Development Commission and Council for Small Industries in Rural Areas; and how this will meet the increasing demand for their services in the rural areas.
§ Mr. MoynihanThe Council for Small Industries in Rural Areas is a company limited by guarantee, which is wholly funded by the Development Commission. Its role is to promote the economic development of rural areas in England in accordance with the powers and policies of the Development Commission. The Development Commission proposes to merge the commission and COSIRA, to enable it to be better placed to tackle the problems of rural areas. Staff and unions have been consulted on the proposals and are being kept fully informed.