HC Deb 13 May 1982 vol 23 cc296-7W
Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for Industry (1) whether he is considering any further programmes to encourage manufacturing industry to automate;

(2) if he expects to introduce further steps to encourage industry to invest in new technology and flexible manufacturing in development areas.

Mr. Butcher

The Budget innovation package mentioned a number of further measures which are under consideration including support for flexible manufacturing systems and an extension of the microprocessor application project. Announcements will be made in due course. Such measures would apply to firms throughout the country including the development areas.