§ Mr. Gummerasked the Secretary of State for Industry what aid is available for companies involved in the development of high technology who wish to set up their operations in Suffolk.
§ Mr. David MitchellCompanies throughout the country, including those in Suffolk, may apply to the Department of Industry for assistance under section 8 of the Industry Act 1972 for major projects which are in the national interest. Capital allowances on industrial buildings, plant and equipment apply to all geographical areas and all manufacturing industry sectors.
252WAid for companies involved in the development of high technology is available through the microprocessor application project and the microelectronics industry support programme and the software products scheme in the microelectronics area; more generally, the development and launching of new products and processes is supported through the product and process development scheme. Aid for research and development is also available through the Department of Industry's requirements boards.