§ 42. Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans he has to encourage investment in information technology for the benefit of industry.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggI fancy that the hon. and learned Gentleman and I are a bit surprised to be where we are.
My Department is already encouraging the more widespread uptake and use of information technology in industry through programmes aimed at industry on the more effective use of information systems, technology transfer on open systems and advanced information technology and other related programmes. Investment by industry in information technology in hardware, software, systems and training would consequently follow as appropriate.
§ Mr. CarlileI am grateful to the Minister for his reply, but what steps do the Government propose to take to ensure that the full range of information technology equipment is available to small businesses in rural areas which are attractive to those who can run businesses on the basis of information technology?
§ Mr. HoggThe hon. and learned Gentleman requires a full and considered reply to such a full and considered question. That being so, I propose to write to him.
§ Mr. David ShawDoes my hon. Friend agree that the information technology industry has greatly expanded under the present Government, whereas it was virtually at a standstill under the Labour Administration? Does he agree also that a full statement about the industry ought to 1423 be made? Will he consider publishing at the earliest possible opportunity a statement on the way in which the information technology industry has expanded?
§ Mr. HoggIt is a subject which should be generally amplified and expanded upon, but as you, Mr. Speaker, will be aware, statements are not a matter for me. I therefore cannot give my hon. Friend a commitment in the terms that he seeks.