HC Deb 27 November 1968 vol 774 c488
14. Mr. Allason

asked the Minister of Technology what steps he has taken to publicise to British industry inventions communicated to the National Research and Development Corporation, but which are not taken up as a project by the Corporation.

Dr. Bray

The National Research Development Corporation is responsible for publicising to British industry all inventions communicated to them by Government Departments. They write to firms, circulate data sheets, and publish a booklet "Inventions for Industry" every six months. In view of the large number and variable quality of inventions submitted from outside Government the approach to firms is adapted to each case.

Mr. Allason

Is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that the information gets through to industry? How is it that so many useful British inventions get adopted in the United Staes and we then have to pay for them on their arrival back here?

Dr. Bray

I would be happy to look at any case which has been put to the N.R.D.C. which has failed to be adopted in this country and which has been adopted in the United States. Of course, the N.R.D.C. seeks licencees in the United States as well.