HC Deb 27 November 1992 vol 214 cc908-9W
Mr. Fatchett

To ask the President of the Board of Trade what was the expenditure, number of applications for the first stage competition and number of successful applicants funded in 1991–92 under the small firms merit awards for research and technology; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Leigh

[holding answer 25 November 1992]: During 1991–92 expenditure on the small firms merit award for research and technology (SMART) scheme was £11.99 million. There were 1,422 entries for the SMART stage 1 competition resulting in 180 grants worth £7.73 million, being offered.