Written question asked by Paul Flynn (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 10 February 1997. It was answered by Ian Taylor (Conservative) on Monday, 10 February 1997 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: What plans his Department has to develop a formal programme for nanotechnology research. - (Holding answer 7 February 1997).

Answer: Mr. Flynn: To ask the President of Board of Trade what plans his Department has to develop a formal programme for nanotechnology research; and if he will make a statement. [14972] Mr. Ian Taylor: [holding answer 7 February 1997]: Nanotechnology is an enabling technology which may impact the advancement of a wide range of scientific and engineering disciplines and industrial sectors in the future. It is essential for each of these disciplines and sectors to be able to prioritise its own research into all enabling technologies, including nanotechnology, to best suit its own objectives. This is indicated by the conclusions of the foresight panels, over half of which identified nanotechnology related topics as research priorities.

Secondary information