HC Deb 03 March 1969 vol 779 c40W
Mr. Nott

asked the Minister of Technology if he will give the total value of the expenditure from public funds on hovercraft research, development and trials in the current financial year; and if he will list the Government or other research establishments at which this work is being carried out, showing the expenditure at each establishment.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

In the current financial year total expenditure by the Ministry of Technology on research, development and trials in aid of hovercraft is expected to be £2,250,000.

This comprises:

  1. (a) Government establishments with separate budgets for hovercraft research and development:
    • National Physical Laboratory—Expenditure 1968–69 £364,000.
    • Royal Aircraft Establishment—Expenditure 1968–69 £45,000.
    • Other establishments assist on particular tasks from time to time.
  2. (b) Expenditure under extramural contracts of £1.8 million.

The National Research Development Corporation continues to support the development of particular projects under the powers of the Development of Inventions Act.