HC Deb 22 December 1964 vol 704 cc1025-6
3. Sir J. Eden

asked the Joint Under-Secretary of State for Education and Science, as representing the Minister of Technology, if he will make a statement about his plans to increase productivity in British industry.

Mr. Boyden

Technological advance is a key factor in increasing productivity and much of the work of the D.S.I.R. research stations and the grant-aided research associations assists such improvements. The right hon. Gentleman is taking steps to intensify this work. He is setting up expert teams to study what needs to be done in a number of selected industries both by the industries themselves and the Government to increase their rate of technological growth.

Sir J. Eden

In a recent Press interview, the Minister referred to his excitement at the prospect of the plans which he had in mind. May we be told a little more about what excites him in this regard? What, for example, are the particular powers he has it in mind to acquire? Will he compel companies to invest? Will he compel unions to drop restrictive practices, because unless that is done there can be very little technological progress?

Mr. Boyden

I think the excitement will come when the Minister comes to the House.

Mr. Ridsdale

Would the Under-Secretary tell the Chancellor of the Exchequer that the best way to get productive investment in industry is to allow individuals to invest more money themselves rather than the Government?

Mr. Boyden

The Minister will take note of that question.

Mr. Hector Hughes

Does my hon. Friend realise that full use is not being made of the Dounreay scientific organisation in regard to productivity? Will he pay some attention to using the scientists who are there for the purpose of applying more scientific methods to productivity in industry?

Mr. Boyden

I know my hon. and learned Friend's interest in Dounreay. I can assure him that the scientists are being properly used. In any case, there is a Question later on the Order Paper dealing with this subject.

Sir Knox Cunningham

When may we expect the excitement of the Minister answering Questions in the House?

Mr. Boyden

Very shortly.