Trade minister Richard Caborn and a select group of US businessmen were today meeting key figures in Bradford's world of commerce to discuss ways of helping deprived areas.

The group was to be treated to lunch at Action for Bradford Limited (ABL), managers of the Carlisle Business Centre, Carlisle Road and meet entrepreneurs from the city's Asian community.

Shaukat Ahmed, vice-chairman of ABL, told the meeting: "To make a real difference we need more stronger development organisations formed on principles of quality and sustainability.

"That requires clear commitment from us, the private sector and from government."

ABL is a community-based group aimed at regenerating Bradford through business partnerships.

Mr Caborn said: "This has been a valuable opportunity to share ideas and experiences.

"I am sure it has been important for my US colleagues to set some of the key issues raised by the joint UK/US enterprise in London yesterday against the reality of an area like Bradford, where so much is being done to drive forward the city's economic and social development."