§ Mr. Rhodri MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what consultations he has undertaken in relation to the criteria for restructuring assistance under the European Regional Development Fund, European Social Fund and other funds. [64988]
§ Mr. WillsI and my officials have undertaken a series of consultations with National bodies on all issues relating to the reform of European Structural Funds during the course of the negotiations. Consultations with local and regional organisations are organised by the Scottish Office, Northern Ireland Office, Welsh Office, by the DETR and the Government Offices in England.
The information received from all these consultations is used by the Department of Trade and Industry in developing the UK's policy on the reform of the European Structural Funds.