EUROPEAN CITIES OF ENTERPRISE

Early day motion 1488, tabled 30 June 2003 by Colin Challen (Labour). Signed by 15 members.

That this House congratulates Liverpool, and all the contenders for the title of European City of Culture 2008, on their efforts to make the UK a rich and diverse place to live; notes that many British cities could with justice have claimed the title, but that there are other strengths in cities which should be recognised and encouraged amongst which, most importantly, would be the ability to create strong local economies; calls upon the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry to lobby the European Union for the creation of the title European City of Enterprise to be awarded annually, starting with a British city in 2004; and further notes that if this award were to be made, one of the strongest contenders and probably winner of the first award would be the city of Leeds, which on every measure has demonstrated a determined and successful strategy to reduce unemployment, create new businesses and develop thriving private and public sectors which has resulted in life-term economic stability for its inhabitants, whilst recognising that there is always more to do.

Signatures by party: Labour 14, Liberal Democrat 1.