§ Jane GriffithsTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will make it his policy to support the Declaration b Mayors and Leaders of Urban Areas for an ambitious European Union Regional Policy; and if he will make a statement. [103406]
§ Mr. LeslieThe Government's preferred approach to EU regional policy is set out in the consultation paper "A modern regional policy for the United Kingdom", which was published on 6 March.
The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister welcomes the recognition given b the mayors and leaders of urban areas, in their declaration, of the importance of urban areas, not least to the deliver of the Lisbon objectives.
The launch of the Government's paper on 6 March marked the beginning of a period of consultation in the UK on the future of the European Structural Funds, which will conclude on 4 Jul. We are actively seeking the views of all stakeholders, including the mayors and leaders of urban areas, during this process.
The Government is committed to an active regional policy that reduces regional disparities and helps all nations and regions.