§ Ann ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many(a) job losses have been announced and (b) new jobs have been created in the Cynon Valley for each year since 1997; and what percentage were unemployed in February (i) 2002 and (ii) 1997. [40531]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyThere is no authoritative record of announced job losses and gains.
The percentage of unemployed claimants in the Cynon Valley Parliamentary Constituency stood at 7.1 per cent. in January 2002 (the latest available figure). The equivalent figure in January 1997 was 16.1 per cent.
§ Ann ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what recent discussions he has had with the First Secretary of the National Assembly for Wales about the use of European structural funds to create employment in the Cynon Valley. [40537]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI meet regularly with the First Minister when we discuss a range of issues affecting Wales.
The Cynon Valley is within the designated Objective 1 area. A key aim of the Objective 1 programme is to promote growth in employment and increase economic activity by developing small and medium sized businesses and encouraging community economic regeneration and rural development.
Two major projects under the Rhondda Cynon Taff Partnership have been approved. Funding of £2.5 million has been made available for the Glamorgan Centre for Information and £1.4 million for a grant scheme for small to medium sized enterprises.
It is also appropriate to mention that the Assembly's Wales European Funding Office itself has a significant presence in the Cynon Valley.
§ Ann ClwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) what recent discussions he has had with the First Secretary of the National Assembly for Wales regarding prospects for manufacturing growth through inward investment in the Cynon Valley; [40530]
(2) what recent discussions he has had with the First Secretary of the National Assembly for Wales regarding prospects for employment growth in areas other than manufacturing through inward investment in the Cynon Valley. [40536]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI meet regularly with the First Minister to discuss a range of issues affecting Wales. The National Assembly and their partners in Team Wales are committed to530W promoting all areas of Wales to potential overseas investors. Their aim is to encourage manufacturing growth alongside service sector developments to ensure a diverse, successful Welsh economy.