asked the Secretary of State for Industry how many representations he has received during 1982 concerning the need to establish a principle of additionality in regard to funds paid towards projects in development areas from the regional development fund of the European Economic Community; and if he will make a statement.

The subject is raised from time to time, particularly in the context of discussions on the future administration of the European regional development fund. Public expenditure in the United Kingdom is determined in the light of expected Community receipts and would be less without those receipts. Payments in respect of industrial projects are retained by the Government in support of national aid, as provided for in Article 4(2)a of the regulation relating to the European regional development fund. Payments in respect of infrastructure projects are passed on to the public bodies concerned.