The Conservative Manifesto 1997

OUR RECORD - THE NATION

Many of our old cities have been rejuvenated through a partnership of public and private investment.

The area of green belt has doubled since 1979.

Water and air quality in the UK have improved significantly.

We are one of only a few nations on course to meet our commitment to return emissions of all greenhouse gasses to 1990 levels by 2000.

The Lottery has been established as the most successful in the world - raising �3 billion for good causes in a little over 2 years.

More support is now given to arts and heritage than at any time in our nation's history. We now provide nearly 20% more for the arts than the last Labour Government, over and above inflation.

British talent was this year nominated for 30 Oscars. British music is again receiving international acclaim. The industry is worth �2.5 billion, more than shipbuilding or electric components: one in 5 CDs and records sold anywhere has a British connection.

There is record investment in our sports facilities. Already the Lottery has provided �480 million for sport, including the planned British Academy of Sport, English National Stadium and for the first time direct funding for British athletes.

We have continued to stand up for British interests in Europe, protecting our opt-out of the Social Chapter, maintaining our border controls, and preserving our budget rebate - worth �18 billion since it was introduced.

We have the most professional armed forces in the World. We have modernised our nuclear deterrent by replacing Polaris with Trident.