§ 78. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Minister of Technology whether he is aware that decimalisation is leading to increasing imports of office machinery; and if he will propose encouragements, by tax benefits or otherwise, to stimulate United Kingdom production.
§ Mr. FowlerIt is to be expected that the change-over to decimal currency will lead to some temporary growth in imports, especially in an internationally based industry like the office machinery industry; but I have no evidence of a major overall increase in imports as a result of decimalisation.
§ 79. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Minister of Technology if he will take steps to speed up the delivery of conversion kits for decimalisation of office equipment, in view of the delays which lead to the purchase of new imported machines.
§ Mr. FowlerI have no evidence of delays in the delivery of conversion kits. It is a statutory responsibility of the Decimal Currency Board to promote arrangements for adaptation or replacement of equipment required for decimalisation, and I understand that they are in close contact with manufacturers.