Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Andrew Percy and Martyn Day

Monday 27th February 2017 Commons Chamber

[Martyn Day (Linlithgow and East Falkirk) (SNP)]

T4. The Secretary of State will know the importance to Scotland of EU structural funds, in the form of £1.3 billion of investment that is vital for many of our local communities. The ability to administer those funds is a key component of city deals. Does he agree that the uncertainty about the future of those funds after leaving the EU will have a negative impact on the vital long-term planning that is needed, and that it risks damaging those deals?

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government (Andrew Percy)]

No, I do not agree with that. We have been absolutely clear in our commitment to maintain EU structural funds up until 2020. That commitment could not have been clearer. I remind the hon. Gentleman that this is British taxpayers’ money anyway, at the end of the day.