§ Mr. LoughtonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how much has been spent on New Deal for Communities; and what projects qualify for funding under New Deal for Communities. [126545]
§ Ms Beverley HughesThe New Deal for Communities (NDC) fosters the intensive regeneration of some of our poorest neighbourhoods, supporting projects that tackle such problems as poor job prospects, high levels of crime, educational underachievement, and poor health. To get funding, community based partnerships in eligible areas must first develop a long-term strategy for delivering sustainable change. Since November 1999, 16 pathfinder partnerships have received offers of long-term support and made a start on implementing their strategies. As at April 2000, spending under the NDC had reached £4.9 million.