Leaders debate EU cash aid

EU funds can help provide economic assistance to the region

Business and civic leaders are meeting on Friday to discuss how the north-east of England can take advantage of the forthcoming enlargement of the European Union (EU).

The government has published proposals for the future of EU regional policy, and is consulting in the North East and across the UK.

The EU is providing £650m in funds for regeneration and job creation in the North East between 2000 and 2006.

Jonathan Blackie, regional director of Government Office for the North East, said: "European structural funds paved the way for regional development in the 1980s.

"Along with national funding they have played a major role in the North East and are an important part of the government's measures to close the gap between the North and South.

"Nowadays regional funding follows a more integrated approach with partners such as the regional development agency and local authorities working together."

Regional policy

Councillor Mike Davey, Lead Member on Europe, North East Assembly, said: "The importance of EU funding in helping address some of the economic and social challenges facing the region cannot be overstated.

"The North East Assembly is already making a strong case to government for a continuing commitment to a strong domestic regional policy.

"We believe this approach is essential to helping address the disparity between regions and to assist regions like the North East to take advantage of opportunities."

Partners at the meeting include representatives of One NorthEast, the Regional Assembly, local authorities and the business and voluntary sectors.

The event sees the start of a consultation period during which anyone with an interest in European funding issues can participate.