§ 61. Mr. Goldingasked the Minister of Technology what research he proposes to sponsor in telecommunications; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. David PriceWe expect firms to finance their own civil telecommunications research programmes, but we and the N.R.D.C. remain ready to consider proposals, in exceptional circumstances, by companies for support for their programmes.
§ Mr. GoldingIs the Minister aware that that is a very unsatisfactory answer in view of the great importance of telecommunications both to industry and to the future of data transmission? Should not an answer to my Question include references not only to private firms but also to the Post Office itself?
§ Mr. PriceYes, but the hon. Member, with his connection with the Post Office, will know that there are arrangements between the Post Office and potential client firms. Also, as I said in my answer, support is given by the Government to major aerospace communication programmes which arise from both military and civil support of aerospace.
§ Mr. BennIs the Minister saying that there will be no support from Malvern, for example, which is one of his own establishments, for telecommunications research?
§ Mr. PriceNo, I am not. I thought that the hon. Member's Question was related to direct support in research contracts, or the like, of individual firms.