Commission approves EU funding for Scotland

22 Dec 1999

Scottish Government and Scotland Office Ministers Jack McConnell and Brian Wilson described today's Commission decision to approve the UK proposals for Objective 2 European Structural Funds coverage in Scotland as 'excellent news that will bring real benefits to many areas affected by industrial restructuring, urban deprivation, rural decline and fisheries dependence'.

Mr McConnell said:

"This is good news for Scotland. Our proposals represented a balance between the needs of different parts of Scotland and took local priorities into clear account. Overall, Scotland receives a very fair share indeed.

"We now estimate that the Scottish Objective 2 programmes will be worth some 700 million Euro (currently £450 million) over the next 7 years - some 430 million Euro (currently £270 million) in the West, some 215 million Euro (currently £135 million) in the East and about 70 million Euro currently £44 million) in the South.

"I am very pleased the Commission has been able to approve our proposals for Objective 2 coverage in Scotland. We now have a clear basis on which to prepare the plans for the Objective 2 programmes in the West, East and South of Scotland.

"I look forward to discussing plans in the New Year to ensure that these funds are targeted on areas of need, whether they be in full or transition areas, so that they leave a lasting legacy."

Brian Wilson welcomed the news saying:

"I am very pleased that the Commission has been able to approve the UK Government's proposals for Objective 2 coverage in Scotland. The deal fully reflects Scotland's needs and will ensure that the programme covers some40% of Scotland's population.

"The successful outcome to these negotiations is further evidence of the benefits that can be achieved by the Scottish Government, the Scotland Office and the UK Government working together in the interests of the people of Scotland."

NOTES TO NEWS EDITORS

1. The European Commission today decided to give provisional approval to the UK proposals for Objective 2 coverage. Details of the proposal for Scotland were contained in an Executive Press Notice of 8 October. Minor modifications were made during negotiations with the Commission and are set out in an Executive Press Release of 2 December.
2. The Commission's decision is provisional at this stage and will be confirmed early in 2000 following consultation with Member States. Programme documents for each of the 3 plan areas for Objective 2 will be submitted to the Commission in spring 2000 following consultation exercises involving partners from throughout Scotland as well as the European Committee of the Scottish Parliament.