§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the implementation of the targeting social need initiative. [6784]
§ Mr. AncramThe targeting social need initiative has made a valuable contribution to addressing the problems of areas and people in greatest need. Since 1994, the results of specially commissioned research have been available to assist Departments in identifying areas of greatest need on the basis of objective criteria. These data have been used in the targeting of relevant Government and European Union programmes. Annual statements on public expenditure in Northern Ireland have highlighted specific programmes where expenditure has been increased or maintained. In 1994, management consultants reviewed the implementation of the initiative in the Department of Economic Development and recommendations were adopted, including the establishment of action plans. Other Departments are currently initiating similar strategies.