HC Deb 24 June 1998 vol 314 cc545-6W
19. Ms Lawrence

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the recent visit of the President of the European Union Commission to Wales, in relation to structural funds. [45918]

Mr. Hain

President Santer and my right hon. Friend discussed the economic and social conditions across Wales. He reinforced the fact that continued structural fund support is crucial to the ongoing regeneration of these areas, particularly in the peripheral West and Valleys areas. These needs were underlined by the plight of the rural economy in Wales, as particularly demonstrated by low agricultural incomes.

20. Mr. Touhig

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on his discussions on the structural funds with the President of the European Commission. [45919]

24. Mr. Ruane

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he held with the President of the European Commission during his recent visit to Wales on objective 1 status for west Wales and the valleys. [45923]

27. Mr. Rowlands

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the Cardiff European Union summit as it affects his responsibilities, with particular reference to issues relating to objective 1 status. [45926]

Mr. Hain

Discussions at the Cardiff European Council are not expected to have a direct outcome on future structural fund eligibility.

On 15 June the European Council discussed issues of economic reform; the future of Europe as well as enlargement and the Agenda 2000 package. Eligibility for Structural Funding and financial issues are likely to be discussed by Member States towards the end of the year.