§ 8. Mr. Simon CoombsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what progress is being made in the development of CD-ROM technology in Wales.[1863]
§ Mr. RichardsAs was evident at the recent multi-media conference in Cardiff, Wales has the potential to develop a very significant multi-media industry and I am sure that that will include CD-ROM technology.
§ Mr. CoombsIs my hon. Friend aware that Nimbus Technology and Engineering, whose plant at Cwmbran the Secretary of State for Wales recently visited, is one of the leading developers of CD-ROM technology in Europe? To what extent does he believe that his office can help the development of CD-ROM technology by the sponsorship of CD-ROM in schools in Wales? Mr. Richards: My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State takes a close interest in multi-media and was impressed by what he saw, particularly the new hologram technology that prevents the copying of CDs. My hon. Friend is right: the Department offered£3 million for all primary schools in Wales to be kitted out with multi-media equipment. I am pleased to say that there has been a 100 per cent. take-up.