§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many craft business advisers are employed in Wales under the craft initiative; what is their job description; how many were so employed on 1 May 1988, 1989 and 1990, respectively; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David HuntDuring the period of the craft initiative, which came to an end in March this year, three craft business advisers were employed and were in post on574W the dates in question. Two were employed by the Welsh Development Agency and one by the Development Board for Rural Wales. Their job description was to provide a first point of contact for access to the full range of services offered by Government agencies in Wales, the Wales Craft Council, local authorities and enterprise agencies. As experienced craft producers, they were also to offer advice on craft businesses.
The WDA currently employs three craft advisers. I understand that the role of the DBRW's adviser will also be retained, as part of an expanded marketing department.
§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how Government money devoted to the craft initiative is spent; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David HuntThe craft initiative came to an end on 31 March this year. An evaluation of the initiative has been placed in the Library of the House. New arrangements for support of the craft industry in Wales have been put in place.