§ 37. Mr. Howieasked the Minister of Technology when he expects the Process Plant Expert Committee to report to him.
§ Dr. BrayWe hope to receive the report and recommendations of the Process Plant Expert Committee appointed by my right hon. Friend in the near future.
§ Mr. HowieWhen my hon. Friend says "the near future", no doubt he means the future, but how near is "near"?
§ 38. Mr. Howieasked the Minister of Technology what steps he is taking to ensure that the process plant industry is able to meet the increased demand recently forecast by the National Economic Development Council Process Plant Working Party.
§ Dr. BrayRationalisation among firms making process plant, including pressure vessels, pumps, valves, instruments, desalination and electrical equipment, is bearing fruit in increased efficiency and capacity. Closer contacts between makers and users are being established. Consultations will take place on further action when the report of the Process Plant Expert Committee has been received.
§ Mr. HowieDoes my hon. Friend agree that there is a large potential export market for our process plant manufacturers? Does he think they are now in a position to seize it?
§ Dr. BrayYes, Sir. I am well aware of this, and United Kingdom-based chemical engineering contractors have set themselves ambitious targets for exports of British-made equipment.