HC Deb 25 November 1988 vol 142 c46W
Mr. Hinchliffe

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether the European Commission has accepted Her Majesty's Government's view that objective 2 areas should not be restricted to the present assisted areas.

Mr. Maude

Yes. Indeed the proposal to this effect originated with the Commission. Council Regulation (EEC) No. 2052/88 contains no provision to the contrary.

Mr. Hinchliffe

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether the negotiations taking place with the European Commission are intended to reduce the list of areas proposed by the Government for objective 2 status; and whether assisted area status will be used as a criterion in such a reduction.

Mr. Maude

This question does not yet arise. The Government put their proposals to the European Commission in July, and stand by them. The Commission is not yet ready to discuss them with us.