§ Bob RussellTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what recognition the Government give to the Thames Gateway initiative; and what financial and other support the Government provide. [80754]
§ Mr. McNultyMy right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister made a statement in July announcing plans for a step change in our policies for building successful, thriving communities. As part of that statement, the Thames Gateway was identified as a key area for economic and housing growth. My right hon. Friend, Lord Rooker, chairs the Thames Gateway Strategic Partnership, whose membership includes Ministers from five Government Departments. The partnership is now looking at new means of delivering the rapid regeneration and development of the Gateway.
There are no dedicated resources for the Thames Gateway, but development and regeneration is being supported by investment from various Government funding streams (for example, housing and transport). My right. hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister will be announcing around the turn of the year how he will be allocating resources identified for the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister in the Spending Review 2002.