HC Deb 28 March 1990 vol 170 cc224-5W
21. Sir Russell Johnston

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland when he last met the European Commissioner responsible for regional development; and if he will make a statement.

41. Mr. Maclennan

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will take steps to secure continued funding by the European Community of regional development in the highlands and islands.

43. Mr. Macdonald

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a further statement on the loss of European Community funds to the highlands and islands.

Mr. Lang

I last met Commissioner Millan on 24 November 1989 when I represented the United Kingdom Government at an informal seminar of European Community Ministers responsible for regional planning and development held in Nantes. The Government are seriously concerned by the European Commission's recent proposals for regional fund assistance to the highlands and islands and Dumfries and Galloway. We shall be making every effort to persuade the Commission to reconsider its proposals and recognise the needs of these areas.