§ 8. Mr. Mikardoasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the approximate annual total of public funds now being spent on research on automation and electronic controls and related matters.
Mr. AmoryI would refer the hon. Member to the Answer given on 5th February by my hon. and learned Friend the Financial Secretary to the hon. Member for Gorton (Mr. Zilliacus). No useful 925 estimate of the total of Government expenditure over this wide field can be made.
§ Mr. MikardoIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that we are unfortunately falling behind some other countries which are our competitors in this matter? Does he not know that whereas almost all the transfer machines at present being installed in British factories are being imported, our biggest transfer manufacturer has just laid off half his staff? Will he consult his right hon. Friends directly concerned with these matters to see whether something can be done to remedy this very grave situation?
Mr. AmoryI will take note of what the hon. Member has said. I could not agree with him more about the importance of this aspect of industrial development. It is something of the utmost importance to this country.