§ Sir Raymond Gowerasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will set up special organisations or machinery to attract into Wales sophisticated industries with advanced technology and to encourage the contribution of university colleges in this area; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsIn January 1983 I announced the establishment of WlNvest which is responsible for attracting into Wales inward investment including, though not confined to, high technology companies. WlNvest works closely and effectively with other bodies which have a contribution to make in this respect, not least, where appropriate, university colleges.
Earlier this year, following a proposal I made, WlNtech was set up by the Welsh Developmeent Agency. WlNtech's main objectives are to encourage the development of new products and adaptation to technological change within Welsh industry; to encourage innovation through co-operation between industry and institutions of higher education; and to support WlNvest in encouraging new investment in Wales by high technology companies.