§ 9. Mr. Strangasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he is now in a position to make a statement on the Government's policy towards the British computer industry.
§ Mr. ChatawayThe Government will be replying soon to those recommendations of the Select Committee on Science and Technology to which there has as yet been no response.
§ Mr. StrangDo the Government intend to provide direct support for British firms other than ICL, perhaps by way of development contracts? Have they ruled out the possibility of setting up a consumer research and development board to administer all Government support for the industry on the lines suggested by the Select Committee on Science and Technology? Will he undertake to make a statement on this matter before the Summer Recess?
§ Mr. ChatawayI can at least, in response to the third point, tell the hon. Member that I hope that I shall be able to make a statement before the Summer Recess and that included in it will be answers to his two previous Questions.