HC Deb 07 December 1965 vol 722 cc226-7
28. Mr. Sheldon

asked the Minister of Technology what study he has made of investment incentives in the field of technology; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Cousins

Investment incentives in the field of technology are part of the wider question of incentives to promote industrial investment and modernisation generally which is being examined by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer. My Department, as sponsor for a wide range of engineering industries, is closely concerned in this examination.

Mr. Sheldon

Would not my right hon. Friend agree that his Department has a particularly important rôle to play in this regard; that it is not sufficient just to have investment but that investment should also lead to modernisation, and that the view of the Department headed by him is surely of considerable importance in this respect?

Mr. Cousins

I thought that I had made it quite clear that mine is one of the Departments most closely involved in this matter, and is engaged in discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Mr. William Clark

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when the review will be completed? Can he assure the House that it will be completed before the next Budget?

Mr. Cousins

Questions relating to the timing of the review should surely be addressed to my right hon. Friend.