HC Deb 26 February 1996 vol 272 cc375-6W
Mr. McGrady

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what resources will be allocated to Government departments in order to implement the strategic plan for the targeting social need initiative. [15707]

Mr. Ancram

Many departmental spending programmes already contribute to the targeting social need initiative and departments are encouraged to direct existing resources in relevant programmes, as far as possible, to areas and people in greatest need. Planned spending over the survey period 1996–99 on making Belfast work and Londonderry initiatives remains substantial and additional funds are being made available for a major hospital redevelopment project in west Belfast. The Government's contribution to the new European Union special programme for peace and reconciliation will also have a positive TSN impact.

Mr. McGrady

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he will take to ensure that the Departments of(a) Agriculture, (b) Environment, (c) Economic Development and (d) Finance and Personnel publish a targeting social need strategic plan. [15708]

Mr. Ancram

All Departments take TSN principles into account in drawing up policies and determined expenditure priorities, but it is for each to decide, in the light of its particular responsibilities, whether it is necessary to develop a strategic plan and, if so, whether to publish it.