§ 44. Mr. Benceasked the Minister of Technology what is the total of export orders for machine tools received so far in 1969; and what is the change since the corresponding period in 1968.
§ Dr. BrayThe total value of export orders for machine tools received in the first four months of 1969 was £28.4 million. This represents an increase of 255W 56 per cent. over the same period of 1968 at current prices or 52 per cent. at constant prices.
§ 45. Mr. Benceasked the Minister of Technology what steps he is taking to ensure that the machine tool industry has the capacity to meet the present increased rate of ordering and the prospective future increase.
§ Dr. BrayIt is primarily the responsibility of the machine tool industry to ensure adequate growth in its manufacturing capacity. A recent survey by the M.T.T.A. for the M.T.-E.D.C. indicates a prospective 20–30 per cent. increase of planned deliveries in 1970 over invoiced deliveries in 1968.
The Ministry can consider assistance under the Industrial Expansion Act for the increase of machine tool manufacturing capacity.