Mr. LauranceReed asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry whether, in view of the substantial public funds expended on the project to date, he will ensure that Cammell Laird's underwater vehicle, Sea Beaver, continues to be developed; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RidleyThe National Research Development Corporation agreed in 1968, with the statutory approval of the then Minister of Technology, to support this project financially. I understand that a prototype vehicle has been constructed, some underwater tests have been carried out, and N.R.D.C. is now considering, in 169W consultation with the company and other interested parties, ways of continuing the development.