HC Deb 07 December 1965 vol 722 c225
25. Mr. Biffen

asked the Minister of Technology what proposals he has for assessing the relative competence and technological status of firms on the basis of readily available standardised information.

Mr. Marsh

None, Sir.

Mr. Biffen

Does the hon. Gentleman recall that on 13th November he himself suggested that this was desirable? If he thought that it was desirable on 13th November, why is he not now setting about doing it?

Mr. Marsh

The hon. Gentleman must read my speeches more carefully. I said on that day: Ideally what is needed is a method of assessing the relative competence and technological status of firms on the basis of readily available standardised information". I am sure that, on reflection, the hon. Gentlema a will agree that even the Labour Party takes some time before it can become entirely ideal.