§ 25. Mr. Hoosonasked the Minister of Technology what is the total annual rate of support being given to science-based industry in Wales by the Government; and what is the equivalent sum for England.
§ Dr. BrayThe Government are encouraging the establishment and growth of science-based industry in Wales through measures such as support for industrially oriented work at the university and colleges of technology, research and development contracts, and, more generally, through investment grants and assistance under the Local Employment Acts. It is not possible to say how much of this expenditure in Wales, which is running at over £30 million a year, relates specifically to science-based industry, and accordingly no comparable figure for England can be given.
§ Mr. HoosonIs it correct that, apart from two out-stations of the Royal Aircraft Establishment, there are no Government-financed research and development establishments in Wales? It has been estimated that out of every £1 paid by taxpayers in Wales, only 3d. is spent in Wales by the Government for this purpose.
§ Dr. BrayThere are a number of non-Ministry of Technology Government laboratories in Wales of great distinction—for instance, the Welsh Plant Breeding Station at Aberystwyth and so on. What is lacking in Wales is direct industrial support of firms. The hon. and learned Gentleman is right to emphasise the importance of increasing support, and we shall try to find ways and means of doing so.
§ Mr. David PriceHow does the Minister or his Department define a science-based industry? Does he agree that all industry is, to a greater or lesser 1316 extent, science-based, not least of which is agriculture, which is well represented in Wales?
§ Dr. BrayI entirely agree with the hon. Gentleman. We are trying to avoid what we regard as a very damaging distinction. It is important to make sure that the basic industries get as much support as some of the more glamorous.