HC Deb 09 July 2001 vol 371 cc358-9W
Llew Smith

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the distribution of regeneration funds in Wales. [1775]

Mr. Paul Murphy

Several funding programmes contribute towards regeneration in Wales. Significant among these are:

European Structural Funds During the period 2000–06. Wales will be eligible for:

  • €1.85 billion (approximately £1.2 billion) for Objective 1 areas—which cover two-thirds of the Welsh population;
  • €81.39 million (approximately £51 million) for Objective 2 areas;
  • €39.73 million (approximately £25 million) of transitional support in areas formerly covered by Objectives 2 or 5b; and
  • €127 million (approximately £81 million) of Objective 3 funding—which is payable in those areas not covered by Objective 1.

Regional Selective Assistance Paid in support of industrial investment in the Assisted Areas, which cover more than 2 million people in Wales.

Communities First A community-centred regeneration strategy targeted at improving the living conditions and prospects of people living in the most deprived parts of Wales. A total of 88 communities—covering 119 electoral wards—will benefit from funding of £82.7 million over three years.

Distribution of funds from these and other programmes is a matter for the National Assembly.

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