§ 14. Mr. Goldingasked the Secretary of State for Industry what steps have been taken towards the formulation of a national telecommunications policy.
§ Mr. Gregor MackenzieThe provision of telecommunications services is primarily a matter for the Post Office. I have asked for its views on some major issues.
§ Mr. GoldingWhile I welcome that answer and am glad that progress is being made, may I stress that telecommunications is wider than some aspects of the Post Office and that it is important to have a national telecommunications policy which embraces all departmental responsibility?
§ Mr. MackenzieI think my hon. Friend knows of the concern I have had about this for a very long time. The Post Office has, as my hon. Friend knows, long-term plans which envisage a national integrated system, and the aim is to provide all the services according to demand.
§ Mr. LaneWill the Minister keep in mind that one of the most successful and enterprising makers of telecommunications equipment is in my constituency and is a subsidiary of a multinational company? Will the Labour Party cease its vendetta against multinational companies, which is bound in the long run—and perhaps also in the short run—to discourage further investment in this country?
§ Mr. MackenzieI am sorry, but I do not know the company to which the hon. Gentleman alludes. If he cares to tell me which it is, I shall certainly give consideration to his point of view.