§ Mr. Liddell-GraingerTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what help she will give to Regional Development Agencies in England to increase inward investment. [112954]
§ Alan JohnsonAs part of the RDAs 'Single Pot' funding in 2003–04, Invest.UK are providing £12.93 million.
Invest.UK plan to spend at least £7.2 million in 2003–04 to promote the UK to potential inward investors world-wide. Enquiries generated through this national promotional campaign play a pivotal role in supporting RDAs cluster development activities, helping RDAs deliver their regional economic strategies, and increasing inward investment to their regions.
Invest.UK has also led the development of a bespoke 'best practice' modular training package for the RDAs to assist them to increase the quality of their 'aftercare' service to inward investors.