§ Mr. Kenneth Clarkeasked the Secretary of State for Industry how many feasibility studies into the possible use of computer aids by small manufacturing firms have been financed by the Department of Industry; how many consultants have received funds in this way; what has been the total cost to public funds; and whether he will make a statement of the scheme for financing such studies.
§ Mr. Bob CryerUp to the present time three feasibility studies have been authorised, three consultants have been given contracts for these studies and a total of £3,550 has been committed from public funds. In addition three further applications have been approved and contracts are being processed for them.
These contracts have been placed under a scheme to assist computer-aided production management in small firms announced by the Department of Industry through a Press release on 14th September 1977.