Dr. ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) what representations he has received concerning the voluntary work content of the valleys initiative programme; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what consultations his Department has undertaken with regard to the voluntary effort content of the valleys initiative programme;
(3) if he will make a statement on the progress of the voluntary effort content of the valleys initiative programme.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerRepresentations have been received from the Wales Council for Voluntary Action and the Mid Glamorgan Association of Voluntary Organisations about community development activity and the development of voluntary services generally in the valleys.
Consultations are taking place with the county associations of voluntary organisations in Gwent, Mid Glamorgan and West Glamorgan to agree a programme of action for which £100,000 has been set aside in 1989–90. This is in addition to the substantial voluntary sector funding already made available under other headings.
The urban programme is continuing to provide very substantial support for a wide range of voluntary schemes including those concerned with social services, environmental improvement and business support and advice. In 1989–90 allocations to voluntary schemes benefiting the valleys will total £3 million.
Good progress is also being made with other schemes identified in the programme and being undertaken by the 466W Community Projects Foundation, Groundwork Foundation, Prince of Wales Committee and UK2000, all of which are expected to make an important contribution in the valleys.