§ 22. Mr. Goldingasked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications what development is taking place, within the capital programme which he has authorised, on telephone exchange and stored programme control techniques; and when it is expected that a commercially viable system of stored programme control can be introduced.
§ Sir J. EdenResearch and development are primarily matters for the Post Office and I have nothing to add to the answer which was given to the hon. Gentleman on 9th February.—[Vol. 830, c. 1320–1.]
§ Mr. GoldingIs the Minister aware that Government grants towards the development of stored programme control should be taken into consideration when decisions are taken on whether to adopt TXE4 equipment, and that these are direct grants to the National Research Development Corporation?
§ Sir J. EdenThe Post Office does not expect to decide on its proposals for the next generation of telephone equipment before the end of this year. It will then come to me for approval of its long-term capital programme. In the meantime, I am keeping myself informed of developments and I will ensure that the Post Office takes into account all the relevant considerations.