§ 2. Sir C. Osborneasked the Minister of Technology how much Government backing, and what guaranteed orders he proposes to give to British computer manufacturers to support their research and development costs and to assist them obtain export orders; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Technology (Mr. Edmund Dell)Substantial support is being given to the British computer industry through research and development contracts and through a succession of Government orders.
§ Sir C. OsborneMay I ask the Joint Parliamentary Secretary to convey to the Minister of Technology my congratulations on his appointment and my good wishes in the important job which he has undertaken? May I ask the hon. Gentleman two Questions? First, will the new Minister continue the support which was given by the previous Minister in buying British machines rather than American machines for the universities, the Post Office, and the nationalised industries? Secondly, will he extend the export guarantees to cover the exports of these expensive machines which are now taking place?
§ Mr. DellMy right hon. Friend will certainly continue the support for the British computer industry which has been given in the past. We have under consideration the question of extending the export guarantees to cover these machines, but I am not yet ready to say anything on the matter.
§ Mr. DalyellCan we count on further help for computer-aided designs?
§ Mr. DellThis matter is under study in the National Engineering Laboratory at East Kilbride. We certainly have the matter under attention.