§ Mr. SpellerTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will give details of his Department's future plans for the support of the growing export market in photovoltaics.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 14 January 1988]: United Kingdom companies in the photovoltaic industry are generally of small to medium size and are, therefore, well placed to benefit from the recently announced enterprise initiative, including the marketing initiative which assists companies to develop a comprehensive marketing plan at home and overseas. All United Kingdom firms, 421W irrespective of size, will continue to be helped to succeed in the export market through my Department's new export initiative.
Within this framework, my Department will continue to encourage collaboration in research and development including by means of the international photovoltaic energy project established as a result of the Versailles (1982) and Williamsburg (1983) economic summits, participation in European Community-funded research, development and demonstration programmes, and the development of international standards, all of which will contribute to the ability of United Kingdom firms to compete effectively in overseas markets.
§ Mr. SpellerTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will provide figures of the support given by the Department of Trade and Industry and any other Government Departments towards the development of photovoltaics during the past five years.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 14 January 1988]: Over the past five years Government Departments have granted financial assistance of £3,320,000 for the development of photovoltaic devices and systems.