§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Industry what study he has made of the advantages of optical fibre cabling; and if he will take steps to ensure that cable development in the United Kingdom is based on optical fibre systems.
§ Mr. ButcherI am aware of the advantages offered by optical fibres. The fibre optics and optoelectronics scheme, launched last year, provides assistance for companies engaged in the manufacture of optical fibres and associated components, and for innovative applications.