HC Deb 01 February 1990 vol 166 c334W
37. Mr. John Browne

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what proposals he has to encourage development in rural areas; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peter Bottomley

There is a need to focus and co-ordinate action towards social and economic development in the most deprived rural areas of Northern Ireland. An interdepartmental committee on rural development will review policies and programmes in these areas to ensure the maximum impact of existing expenditure with due sensitivity to identified needs in the areas themselves.

The opportunities for further action will be examined in light of the committee's findings and recommendations.