asked the Minister for the Environment the plans, if any, he has to provide adequate financing for regional development organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The expenses of regional development organisations are met by way of contributions from their constituent bodies. My Department make an annual contribution, on behalf of all Government Departments, of up to 25 per cent of normal secretarial and operating expenses. A sum of up to £90,000 has been provided for my Department's contribution in the current year. This represents an increase of almost 6 per cent on the provision of £85,000 for 1985.