§ Mr. RooneyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to invite further bids under the single regeneration budget; and what funds will be available in(a) 1998–99, (b) 1999–00 and (c) 2000–01. [4804]
§ Angela EagleMy hon. Friend the Minister for the Regions, Regeneration and Planning announced on 22 May,Official Report, columns 152–53, that the Government would continue with Round 4 of the Single Regeneration Budget Challenge Fund, altered to take account of our policy priorities. Bids have been invited by 26 September 1997. On current expenditure plans, total provision nationally for the SRB Challenge Fund of £568 million in 1998–99 and £625 million in 1999–00 includes £12.5 million in 1998–99 and £75 million in 1999–00 for new schemes approved under the current bidding round. The level of resources available for new schemes in each Government Office region will depend on the levels of commitments in each region from the three previous Challenge Fund rounds. Expenditure plans have not yet been set for the year 2000–01. No decisions have yet been taken on whether to have further bidding rounds after Round 4.