§ Mr. KeyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if it is his policy to give financial support to the training of craftsmen in traditional rural industries including farriery, saddlery and wheelwrighting; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AtkinsThe Rural Development Commission is the Government's rural regeneration agency and has statutory responsibility for keeping under review and advising my right hon. Friend upon all matters relating to the economic and social development of rural areas of England. The commission may carry out, or assist others to carry out, measures to further such development. Such measures can include the training of craftsmen in traditional rural industries where these are of importance to the rural economy. However, it is for the commission to decide the most appropriate and cost-effective means of delivering this support.