New Science-based Industries

HC Deb 27 April 1965 vol 711 cc195-6

4. Mr. Ian Gilmour

asked the Minister of Technology what new science-based industries he proposes to establish during 1965.

Mr. Cousins

I have at present nothing to add to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on 1st December to the hon. Member for Belfast, North (Mr. Stratton Mills).

Mr. Gilmour

Surely this is yet another example of Labour plans being ready to swing into operation immediately. Will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that in the unlikely event of his actually doing something about this he will act largely through private enterprise?

Mr. Cousins

I will give no such assurance, and I would not accept the hon. Gentleman's view that we are unlikely to act.