§ Dr. Kim HowellsTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what are the main components of Government spending on technology transfer in the United Kingdom; how the level of spending has changed in the period 1979 to 1990; and what is the predicted level of spending in the future.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggThe DTI supports the widespread adoption of new technologies and current best practice through a range of specific technology transfer programmes which currently include advanced information 641W technology, "open systems" standards for IT equipment and modern materials technology. In addition, the Department provides support for a number of other activities which contribute to technology transfer—particularly technology-based consultancies and the teaching company scheme. Total outturn and planned expenditure figures—which are available on a consistent basis only from 1984–85—are as follows:
Year £ million 1984–85 80 1985–86 74 1986–87 99 1987–88 93 1988–89 96 1989–90 97 1990–91 112 1991–92 114 1992–93 113 Technology transfer is also encouraged in the United Kingdom through the R and D programmes supported by the Department and the European Community.