§ Mr. Cant asked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he is yet in a position to announce in which locations he proposes to establish the 62 information technology centers; and in what way they will be financed.
486W§ Mr. Kenneth Baker: I hope to announce locations of the first information technology centers within a few weeks. MSC and the Information Technology center Consultancy Unit are at present processing and developing applications with sponsors. The initial commitment is to 25 or so centers and not the 62 to which the hon. Member refers. The centers will be financed by the Manpower Services Commission and Department of Industry. The normal Manpower Services Commission provision of trainee allowances, capital grant and salary assistance will apply. The Department of Industry will provide grant towards capital equipment, software development and some salary. Additionally, local sponsors will assist in cash and kind, along with assistance from high technology industry.