§ Sir David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what support he is giving to new applications of the use of wind in ship propulsion; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ButcherOver £200,000 has been provided to industry since 1983 under the support for innovation scheme towards the cost of projects relating to wind assisted ship propulsion. A United Kingdom device which has received such support is expected to commence sea trials shortly. Wind assistance is one of the areas under consideration in the fuel efficiency part of the efficient ship programme and support for further projects will be considered if appropriate proposals are presented to the Department.