§ 40. Mr. Chapmanasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will report progress on his Design for Design policy; and what further initiatives he proposes to take.
§ Mr. ButcherThe strategy document "Design for Design: a Framework for Action", which I announced in May 1984, was the result of a comprehensive review of Government policy on design. A strategy group was established to consider the most effective ways of meeting the objectives described in that document. The group has produced a constructive report, which I have welcomed. I am now considering the recommendations in the report.
In the meantime, the Design for Design policies will continue. The success of our design advisory service funded consultancy scheme has been maintained, and an exhibition of completed projects from the scheme is currently touring the country. We are supporting various initiatives in the field of design education including the "Young Designers into Industry" scheme which has recently been launched by the Royal Society of Arts. This scheme will give young design graduates a period of planned work experience.
I intend to continue to pursue a vigorous design policy, with the objective of improving design performance in British industry and thus enhancing our competitiveness particularly in consumer goods, in world markets.