§ Mr. HobanTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much was spent on each Priority Area for Economic Regeneration in(a) 2001–02, (b) 2002–03 and (c) 2003–04 by (i) her Department and (ii) the relevant regional development agency; and how much is budgeted to be spent in (A) 2004–05 and (B) 2005–06. [173780]
§ Jacqui Smith[holding answer 17 May 2004]: I understand that the term "Priority Area for Economic Regeneration" is used in the Regional Planning Guidance 9. The criteria for designating such areas include: above average unemployment levels, high levels of social deprivation, low skill levels, dependence on declining industries, derelict urban fabric, peripherality and insularity. The Areas are not intended to be covered by a Single Regeneration Scheme and projects within these areas are potentially eligible for funding from a number of different sources. The Department does not collect information on total expenditure in relation to all these areas and such information is available only at disproportionate cost.