Scientific Discoveries

HC Deb 21 January 1999 vol 323 cc544-5W

24. Dr. Iddon

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans he has to encourage commercial development of scientific discoveries. [65214]

Mr. Byers

The commercial exploitation of scientific research is fundamental to a prosperous knowledge-driven economy. The Competitiveness White Paper set out a number of important measures includingA new "Reach-out" fund to encourage universities to work more effectively with business; A £25 million Science Enterprise Challenge to create up to eight enterprise centres at UK universities; Expansion of activities to promote collaborative partnerships and the transfer of knowledge between the science and engineering base and businesses. A look at how to make the most of the outputs of Public Sector Research Establishments.

The White Paper announcements build on other activities such as the University Challenge launched last year to help universities turn good research into good business.