HC Deb 12 February 1968 vol 758 cc931-2
13. Mr. J. H. Osborn

asked the Minister of Technology how many development contracts have been placed by his Department with the private sector of industry in 1967; and what has been the total value of these contracts.

Mr. Fowler

During the year in question a total of 3,490 research and development contracts and amendments to such contracts were placed with industry. The total net value was £171 million.

Mr. Osborn

Can the hon. Gentleman state how many of these are outside the N.R.D.C., and what method is there for regularly reporting to the House the content and cost of the projects? Has there been any cut in the budget for the current year as a result of the statement in January?

Mr. Fowler

In answer to the last question, I do not think that this has gone through the machine yet. I am afraid that I cannot give an answer with regard to the N.R.D.C., but I am prepared to write to the hon. Gentleman if he would like an answer.

Mr. Osborn

Outside the N.R.D.C.?

Mr. Fowler

Yes, outside the N.R.D.C. I am afraid that we cannot publish de- tails of the contracts, many of which are commercial and, therefore, confidential.

Sir H. Legge-Bourke

Can the hon. Gentleman say what part of the £171 million is concerned with aircraft as distinct from other projects? Can he also say whether in approaching the whole problem the Department makes any distinction between those projects which are designed to exploit to the full the existing state of the art and those which are designed to increase the state of the art?

Mr. Fowler

I cannot give the exact proportion with regard to the aircraft contracts, but it is a very large part of the £171 million. The objective of such contracts is to make money, to encourage industry to show a profit.

Mr. Osborn

I beg to give notice that I shall seek to raise the matter on the Adjournment.