Rural losers fear decline as EU accused of moving aid goalposts
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.BRITISH officials complained last night that the goalposts have been moved on regional aid, and the regions which have lost out complained of possible grave economic consequences.
Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson said Northern Ireland is losing out on funding at a time when it was desperately needed. He said: "If there is an opportunity for a different political climate and a return to a normal society in Northern Ireland, it's ridiculous that Brussels would deprive us of much-needed funding at a time when we can move forward and create a level of employment which we haven't got."
The Liberal Democrat rural affairs spokesman, Charles Kennedy, whose Ross, Skye and Inverness constituency qualified for Objective 1 funding under the existing system, declared he was ready to fight to keep that status. He added his party would "underline the continuing vulnerability of our economic base".
Highlands Council convenor Peter Peacock said the European Union will be taking into account sparcity of city population when deciding which areas were eligible for the lucrative Objective 1 status. He added: "That measure is presently eight persons per square kilometre, ours is nine persons per square kilometre. We are certainly not giving up."
However, there were also winners. Under the new proposals South Yorkshire stands to gain up to pounds 1.2bn.
Dennis MacShane, Rotherham's Labour MP, said: "This is the best economic news this region has had for 20 years. This will provide a massive boost for economic regeneration in Yorkshire."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments