To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultations he has had with the coalfield communities concerning RECHAR funds.

I have received a significant number of representations from hon. Members, including the hon. Gentleman himself, local authorities and other bodies about RECHAR and have discussed the matter with a number of them. I have consistently made it clear that I am extremely concerned that these EC resources remain blocked by Commissioner Milian and I hope that the whole matter can be resolved as soon as possible.

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what action he is taking to release RECHAR funds for Wales.

I am concerned that Commissioner Milian has not yet approved the RECHAR programme for industrial south Wales and I discussed this matter with his director general when I was in Brussels last month.