§ Mr. SpringTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what applications the Government has made to the European Commission to ensure that the United Kingdom benefits from the Commission's Regions of Knowledge initiative; what the Government's assessment is of whether this is a productive use of EU funds; and if he will make a statement. [135883]
§ Ms HewittI have been asked to reply.
Regions of Knowledge is a pilot initiative of the European Parliament which is being administered by the Commission. It invited regional consortia to bid for funds, and consequently it was not appropriate for Her Majesty's Government to apply directly. We are aware that several bids including UK participants were prepared, but those submitted are currently confidential.
Science research and innovation are key drivers of regional development. The potential value added of this initiative is considerable in comparison to the modest €2.5 million funding proposed.