Mr. Michael Jabez FosterTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what progress has been made on introducing prototype employment zones; and if he will make a statement. [20116]
§ Mr. Andrew SmithOn 17 November, I received bids from local partnerships in the eight areas invited to put forward proposals for prototype Employment Zones. All were of a high standard and included innovative solutions to local problems.
I am pleased to announce that I have now decided to make funds available to the following five areas to develop prototype Employment Zones: Glasgow, Liverpool, North West Wales, Plymouth and South Teesside.
524WWe will also be examining how best to carry forward the good work completed in the other three areas which submitted proposals.