§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Minister of Technology what initiatives he has taken to make available to sectors of British industry in development areas the results of work done at defence research establishments with civil applications.
§ Mr. BennThere are direct contacts between industrial firms and the research establishments, fostered by personal visits, open days and the distribution of technical papers. There is also a flow of information to industry through the regional offices of my Department, which maintain a close liaison with the establishments and are kept supplied with up-to-date information on the range of facilities and expertise available. These activities apply equally to the development areas and to the country as a whole. I have, however, instructed my Department to make particular efforts to seek out and encourage viable research and development projects in development areas.