Written question asked by Eddie McGrady (Social Democratic & Labour Party) on Tuesday, 12 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 20 October 2004. It was answered by Ian Pearson (Labour) on Wednesday, 20 October 2004 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what further progress has been made towards the (a) preparation, (b) development and (c) publication of a Rural White Paper; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. McGrady: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what further progress has been made towards the (a) preparation, (b) development and (c) publication of a Rural White Paper; and if he will make a statement. [191864] Mr. Pearson: A review of rural development policy being undertaken by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, in consultation with the Rural Stakeholder Forum, will be completed in early 2005. A major study by consultants PricewaterhouseCoopers to inform this review will be completed very shortly. A decision on whether or not to produce a rural White Paper will be considered in the light of the conclusions of the review.

Secondary information