§ 14. Mr. Benceasked the Minister of Technology what progress he is making in increasing the development of new technological processes in industry in Scotland.
§ Mr. MarshMy right hon. Friend is concerned to promote the development and application of advanced technology in Scottish industry no less than in the rest of British industry and the plans on 202 which he is working will contribute to this end.
§ Mr. BenceWould my hon. Friend consider establishing in Scotland—say in the new town of Cumbernauld, where there is plenty of scheduled building land—a department of the National Research Development Corporation so that it could, in co-operation with Scottish industry, develop some of these new techniques?
§ Mr. MarshThat is something which I will willingly consider. The department intends to extend the work and facilities of the National Engineering Laboratory at East Kilbride. It has a great deal of activity under way at present in Scotland. However, we should need notice of Questions on any particular project.