HC Deb 17 July 1972 vol 841 cc9-10W
46. Mr. Leslie Huckfield

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what total amount of aid from public funds is now available to the British computer industry.

Mr. Chataway

As I announced to the House on 3rd July, £14.2 million will be provided to ICL for R and D support up to September, 1973. Additionally £3.15 million will be paid to ICL in September, 1972. This is the outstanding balance due to be paid by the Government for their shareholding in ICL, as provided for in the 1968 merger agreement. Also the continuation of the Advanced Computer Technology Project and the racing of development contracts for work in various areas will involve Government expenditure of approximately £2 million in the current year.