§ Mr. SheermanTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what assistance his Department gives to British manufacturing companies to invest in new technology.
§ Mr. McLoughlinThe main assistance the Government provide to firms to invest in new technology is creating an environment which encourages such investment. The Department also provides support by helping companies gain access to science and technology and innovation best practice and strengthening the local infrastructure and networks for delivery of innovation-related services. Specific support for the development of new technology is also available through such schemes as the small firms merit award for research and technology (SMART), support for products under research (SPUR) and regional enterprise grants for investment and innovation projects. Support will continue for industry/higher education institute collaboration under LINK and for European collaboration under EUREKA.