HC Deb 09 July 1969 vol 786 cc1357-8
39. Mr. Rhodes

asked the Minister of Technology whether, in view of the reduced ordering by the Central Electricity Generating Board, he will take steps to increase the export activities of heavy electrical manufacturers.

Dr. Bray

Heavy electrical manufacturers are well aware of the need to increase the proportion of their deliveries going overseas. Government support for the increase includes the adoption of standards suitable for overseas markets, the rationalisation of the industry, the encouragement of the use of the experience of the Central Electricity Generating Board, area boards and the Atomic Energy Authority by overseas operators and the activities of diplomatic posts.

Mr. Rhodes

I thank my hon. Friend but will he bear in mind that in the past large producers such as Reyrolle Parsons on Tyneside have relied heavily on C.E.G.B. orders to give them a base for research and development work vital for overseas markets? In view of this, will he continue to encourage and co-ordinate and help all the companies involved in order to capture these vital markets in future?

Dr. Bray

We are in close touch with the heavy electrical manufacturers on their programmes, and when we can join collaborative projects with them we are ready to do so.

Mr. David Price

Will the hon. Gentleman, as a sponsoring Minister for this industry, have urgent discussions with the Ministry of Power to ensure that the comments of the Wilson Committee are implemented and that there is better and more even planning of power generation capital investment programmes of the electricity board?

Dr. Bray

The recommendations of the Wilson Committee are under active discussion. I have discussed them with the major manufacturers.