§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Industry what encouragement he is giving to international co-operation between Rolls-Royce and other aeroengine companies from overseas in producing the next generation of jet engines: to what extent he is prepared to assist 423W Rolls-Royce to develop research on its own in this market; and to what extent he is prepared to protect the lead possessed by Rolls-Royce in this market; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Les HuckfieldThe scope and direction of Rolls-Royce's aero-engine business is, in the first instance, largely a matter for the commercial judgment of the company, and for the NEB, which owns it. My right hon. Friend will carefully consider any recommendation that the NEB may make for maintaining the company's competitive position. I understand that Rolls-Royce is considering a number of projects which could involve international collaboration.
Meanwhile, the Government continue to provide direct support for a wide range of research and development activity in the company.
Programme Duration Expected date of completion (1) Work on the availability, quality and uses of wastepaper 1 year 31st March 1977 (2) Investigation into problems associated with paper mill effluents, including methods of pollution levels 1 year 31st March 1977 (3) The testing of paper and board having a significant wastepaper content 1 year 31st March 1977 (4) A feasibility study of the use of straw in a low pollution pulping process, including the availability of straw as a raw material in papermaking 2¼ years 31st December 1976 (5) A technological forecast of bio-degradation and its application to the pulp and paper industries 1 year 31st March 1977