Structural Funds are used to promote regional development and employment. The new priorities are expected to include a stronger focus on activities to support enterprise, innovation, sustainable communities and sustainable development as well as boosting skills and employment.
The consultation asks for comments on:
- A draft National Strategic Reference Framework for future Structural Funds Programmes in the UK to establish the broad priorities for Structural Funds spending 2007-2013
- The UK Government’s proposals for distributing the UK’s Structural Funds allocations under the new Competitiveness Objective
- The future arrangements for delivery of the Funds
Alun Michael, Minister of State for Industry and the Regions, said:
“The Government is committed to creating a modern and competitive economy. We need to ensure that all parts of the country benefit from our increased economic prosperity and employment. That’s why the consultation I’m announcing today is so important. We must ensure that the European funding that we have been allocated contributes effectively to our regional policy objectives.
Our economic success depends not just on the areas where wealth creation is already happening, but also on sustainable regeneration in areas where local economies are not performing as well. That is why it is vital to establish the right framework for future Structural Funds spending from 2007 to 2013.”
