§ Mr. Fryasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he is taking to assist the footwear and leather industries to adopt new technology; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TrippierAs regards the footwear industry I refer my hon. Friend to my answer of 1 July 1985. The Government have provided £1.1 million in assistance over the last two complete financial years under the Science and Technology Act to help the Shoe and Allied Trades Research Association (SATRA) undertake programmes of benefit to this industry, particularly in areas of application of new technology. The Government have similarly provided £456,000 to the research wing of the British Leather Confederation (BLC).