HC Deb 30 November 1966 vol 737 cc433-4
15. Mr. Grant

asked the Minister of Aviation whether he will make a statement regarding measures taken to strengthen his Department's section dealing with market research in accordance with the recommendation of the Plowden Committee.

Mr. Snow

My Department has a small team of officials engaged full-time on market research which maintains close and cordial contact with the industry and airlines on market research matters. The team has been strengthened following the recommendations of the Plowden report.

Mr. Grant

I am sure that we are all glad to hear that the Government have accepted the recommendations in the Plowden Report in this respect. When the Ministry of Aviation disappears, will this aspect of the matter, market research, be the responsibility of the Board of Trade or of the Ministry of Technology?

Mr. Snow

It will be the responsibility of the Ministry of Technology. I think that I should also mention that there is a not unimportant difference between long-term and short-term market research. As an example, my right hon. Friend recently authorised an examination of the position in New Zealand, where there is a procurement order forthcoming and where collaboration has been very close, to ensure that all in New Zealand who are concerned realise the superiority, technically and economically, of British aircraft.