To ask the Secretary of State for Employment what representations he has received following the launching of the action for cities initiative; and if he will make a statement.

Since the launch of the action for cities programme on 7 March 1988 this Department and the Manpower Services Commission have been taking forward the various initiatives that were announced. There has been a high level of interest from the private sector in the new initiatives. A large number of inquiries have been received from companies, employer groups and other organisations about the schools-industry compacts initiative. A number of possible projects have been identified for potential support under the local enterprise agency project scheme. Support has also been expressed for the new small firms service office in Sheffield.This interest is being sustained by the programme of action for cities working breakfasts, in which this Department is closely involved. These aim to stimulate further private sector involvement in inner city regeneration.