HC Deb 18 March 1964 vol 691 cc178-9W
59. Mr. Owen

asked the Minister of Aviation what steps are being taken to assist electronics firms that have set up in the North-East; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Amery

As my hon. Friend told the House on the 2nd August last, officials of my Department have had discussions in Newcastle with electronic firms in the North-East. We have made a further survey of electronic facilities in the area and several experts from our Research and Development Establishments have visited the firms concerned and assessed what they have to offer. Steps are also being taken by the industry to put the firms concerned in a better position to compete for further orders from my Department and also to bid for sub-contract work. I can make no prediction about the outcome, but I am confident that both my Department and the industry are aware of what industrial capacity is available in the area and of what the Ministry, as a supply Department, can do to help.