This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Debate on future of European Structural Funds
21/01/2003
The Executive is ensuring Scotland's voice is heard in the debate over the future of European Structural Funds, Peter Peacock said today.
The Deputy Minister for Finance and Public Services is meeting Scottish MEPs in Brussels to discuss how Scotland can best influence the debate.
Mr Peacock said:
"The Scottish Executive and the UK share a very deep commitment to the process of enlarging the EU. It represents a great opportunity for Europe. It will promote jobs, wealth and security - in new and existing member states.
"The 10 new members will clearly alter the balance between richer and poorer regions and this will require a fundamental review of a number of EU policies including the future of European Structural Funds.
"Scotland has benefited considerably from European Structural Funds, and our experience means we have an important contribution to make to the debate. I am meeting the Scottish MEPs as part of the process of ensuring that Scotland is fully represented in the EU debate on the future of Structural Funds and to maintain a full and open dialogue between the Scottish Executive and Scotland's MEPs."
Enlargement of the EU is on course to take place in 2004 when 10 new countries will join the current 15.