HC Deb 25 April 1972 vol 835 cc248-9W
Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what space projects, including launcher vehicles and satellites, are currently receiving Government support; and what is the total annual expenditure of his Department on space organisations and technology.

Mr. Onslow

Government support is currently provided for the following national space projectsThe X4 technology satellite. Development of the Skylark sounding rocket for Earth Resources work. The UK5 scientific satellite. The Skynet 2 defence communications satellite. Various supporting satellite technology contracts.

The Government are supporting the scientific research programme of the European Space Research Organisation and that Organisation's applications satellite programme which includes aeronautical, meteorological and telecommunications satellite projects. We are also supporting studies of the United States post-Apollo programme by the European Space Conference—ESC. The United Kingdom is a member of the International Telecommunications Satellite Organisation—INTELSAT—and United Kingdom industry participates in INTELSAT'S procurement programme.

Department of Trade and Industry expenditure on national projects in 1972–73 is estimated to be £3,545,000. The United Kingdom contribution to ESRO and the ESC for 1972–73 is estimated to be £8,630,000. This includes a sum of £4,150,000 paid for from a grant in aid for the Science Research Council made available by the Department of Education and Science. The remainder is DTI expenditure.