§ Mr. Bishopasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is his policy in relation to the development of terotechnology; what is his estimate of potential savings; and what further action he is initiating.
§ Mr. Anthony GrantThe policy is to promote a greater awareness of this important subject in industry, in the professional institutions and in the 167W educational field generally. No precise estimate of potential savings can be formulated but it is estimated that the adoption of better maintenance engineering practices—which is but one aspect of terotechnology—could save manufacturing industry alone up to £550 million per annum. My Department has the advice of the Committee for Terotechnology and many activities have been undertaken and are planned with the aim of widening industry's understanding of the subject and of creating a greater awareness of its significance. The Department attaches great importance to industry's own views and to this end it held a terotechnology forum on 6th November attended by some 200 representatives from leading industrial and commercial organisations. The exchange of views proved most valuable and will greatly assist in guiding the Department's future steps.