§ Mr. Nicholas Wintertonasked the Secretary of State for Industry what Government grants are available to industry for assistance in funding research and development.
§ Mr. ButcherUnder support for innovation the Department of Industry normally offers grants, currently up to 33⅓ per cent. of eligible costs of approved R & D projects, to companies including research associations in or closely associated with the United Kingdom manufacturing sector.
These are complemented by special arrangements to promote the development and application of important new technologies—microelectronics, robotics and so on, which include awareness activities, demonstrations, training and consultancy advice. Details of this, and other support, are given in the "Guide to Industrial Support" published on 25 March 1983 as a supplement to British Business. I am arranging for copies to be placed in the Library and in the Vote Office.