HC Deb 13 June 1980 vol 986 c330W
Mr. Farr

asked the Secretary of State for Industry if he will list annual Government expenditure at the latest available date on promoting research into more efficient battery car production.

Mr. David Mitchell

The Department has given no assistance specifically for the purpose of promoting research into efficient battery car production. The Department does, however, support research, development and experimental programmes aimed at electric vehicles more generally, including their traction batteries and electrical drive systems.

Support for these activities was £1.971 million for financial year 1979–80 and amounts to £2.804 million for the three years to March 1980.