18. To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will make a statement on progress on the regeneration of new towns, with particular reference to Skelmersdale. (143850)

Since 1997, the Government have made regeneration and renewal a priority, investing more than £20 billion in our towns and cities. There has been considerable progress in Skelmersdale including a major redevelopment of the town centre and the area is also benefiting from £3.7 million in safer stronger communities funding.