§ 20. Mr. David Priceasked the Minister of Technology what consideration he is giving to the use of small modulator computers, costing less than £15,000, in the public sector and in Government Departments.
§ Mr. DellThe Ministry of Technology has been examining the whole question of the future need for and use of small computers. The National Research Development Corporation has also been considering proposals in this field.
§ Mr. PriceWould not the Parliamentary Secretary agree that these new small-type computers introduce an entirely new factor into the economics of automation, and will he assure us that he will ensure that every Government Department now reassesses its opportunities for the increased
§ to put over the A.G.R. in the markets of the world?
§ Mr. ShoreI cannot myself now give the assurance that the hon. Gentleman seeks, but quite clearly the purpose of setting up B.N.X. is to give new thrust and drive to our export effort in this field.
§ Following are the extracts:
§ efficiency which these computers offer?
§ Mr. DellThere is certainly a very clear use for small computers. The hon. Gentleman will be aware that there are still differences of view among the experts as to the proper use of small computers for specific tasks and large computers for more general tasks. We shall certainly ensure, as far as we can, that small computers are used as far as is appropriate.