HC Deb 25 March 1977 vol 928 c695W
Mr. Churchill

asked the Secretary of State for Defence by what percentage defence research and development has been increased or decreased compared to 1974 planned expenditure.

Dr. Gilbert

Expenditure on defence research and development in 1977–78 is expected to be 5 per cent. higher at constant prices than in 1974–75, but nearly 8 per cent. lower than was forecast for 1977–78 in 1974. The proportion of the defence budget accounted for by research and development is higher now than in 1974.