§ Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received calling for the setting up of a British space agency; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PattieThis has been suggested from time to time, most recently by the trade union TASS in a recent presentation to me of its study on "Space—the Future". The present United Kingdom arrangements for space have resulted in a lively and competitive British space industry and facilitated impressive achievements in space science. The Government are currently considering their future space activities in the context of proposals from the European Space Agency for its future programmes, and the invitation from President Reagan to participate in an international space station. Any proposals for changes in the present arrangements for dealing with space expenditures can only be considered when decisions have been reached on the future programme.