Civil Research and Development (Hansard, 19 October 1992)

HC Deb 19 October 1992 vol 212 cc42-3W 43W

§ Mr. Wigley
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster if he will make it his policy to raise the Government's share of the funding of civil research and development and to set a target date for achieving such a goal.

§ Mr. Waldegrave
No. It would be wrong for the Government to set a target for their share in the funding of total civil research and development—R and D—not least because this share would vary as a result of decisions on R and D funding by the private sector and other bodies. The Government fund the R and D they need on the basis or merit and value for money, consistent with what can be afforded.