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To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, how much funding MG Rover has received in total from the Foresight Vehicle LINK programme. - Inc figure.
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, how much funding MG Rover has received in total from the Foresight Vehicle LINK programme. - Inc figure.
Asked by
Lord Bellingham
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Smith of Malvern
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
3 December 2003
For answer on
15 December 2003
Answered on
15 December 2003
Mr. Bellingham: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much funding MG Rover has received in total from the
Foresight Vehicle LINK programme. [142121]
Jacqui Smith: Since the sale of MG Rover Group in May 2002, MG Rover has received one offer of grant for £62,500 under the Foresight
Vehicle LINK programme.
Subjects
Grants; Government assistance; Motor vehicles; Rover Group; LINK programme
Date
15 December 2003
Reference
142121; 415 c645W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what financial contributions have been made by her Department to the Foresight Vehicle LINK programme. - Inc table.
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what financial contributions have been made by her Department to the Foresight Vehicle LINK programme. - Inc table.
Asked by
Lord Bellingham
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Smith of Malvern
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
3 December 2003
For answer on
4 December 2003
Answered on
4 December 2003
Mr. Bellingham: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what financial contributions have been made by her Department
to the Foresight Vehicle LINK programme. [142120]
Jacqui Smith: The Department has made commitments totalling £12.4 million, as follows:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
£000
1997-98 672
1998-99 149
1999-2000 660
2000-01 722
2001-02 1,382
2002-03 3,975
2003-04 3,493
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Subjects
Finance; Motor vehicles; Technology; Research; LINK programme
Date
4 December 2003
Reference
142120; 415 c122W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if she will make a statement on the operation of the Foresight Vehicle LINK programme. - Inc figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if she will make a statement on the operation of the Foresight Vehicle LINK programme. - Inc figures.
Asked by
Lord Bellingham
(Conservative)
Answered by
Baroness Smith of Malvern
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
3 December 2003
For answer on
4 December 2003
Answered on
4 December 2003
Mr. Bellingham: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on the operation of the Foresight
Vehicle LINK programme. [142122]
Jacqui Smith: The Foresight Vehicle LINK programme supports technology transfer through collaborative R&D, aiming to raise the
innovation performance of the automotive industry in the UK, including its supplier base. A supporting knowledge transfer network,
now managed by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, carries out technology roadmapping to set the research priorities for
the programme, brokerage and dissemination activities. The programme includes a wide portfolio of projects, valued in excess of £100
million, in the key thematic areas of advanced materials; advanced electronics, sensors, software and telematics; powertrain;
alternative propulsion systems; and design and manufacturing processes. DTI has now fully committed it funds of £12.4 million to the
programme.
Subjects
Innovation; Motor vehicles; Technology; Research; Technology transfer; LINK programme
Date
4 December 2003
Reference
142122; 415 c122-3W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, how many applications for funding have been made to the LINK Programme in the current financial year; and what the (a) name, (b) subject and (c) cost is of each application which has been approved.
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, how many applications for funding have been made to the LINK Programme in the current financial year; and what the (a) name, (b) subject and (c) cost is of each application which has been approved.
Asked by
David Chaytor
(Labour)
Answered by
Patricia Hewitt
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
5 March 2003
For answer on
18 March 2003
Answered on
18 March 2003
Mr. Chaytor: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many applications for funding have been made to the LINK
Programme in the current financial year; and what the (a) name, (b) subject and (c) cost is of each application which has been
approved. [101878]
Ms Hewitt: LINK is a pan-government scheme for the support of collaborative research between UK companies and the science base. It
consists of a number of individual programmes which run their own calls for proposals. There are currently 25 programmes open for
applications. Each programme funds a number of projects.
I believe that my hon. Friend has a particular interest in the LINK Basic Technologies for Industrial Applications programme. In the
case of this programme, a call for proposals was announced by my noble Friend, the Minister for Science and Innovation on 26 July
2002, with a closing date of 7 November 2002. 140 outline applications were received, of which 20 were invited to come forward as
full proposals to the second stage of the appraisal process. 19 full proposals were received by the closing date of 20 February 2003
and are now being assessed by an independent panel of industrial and academic experts. Therefore, at this stage, no projects have
been approved for funding under the programme.
Subjects
Companies; Applications; Costs; Finance; Technology; Research; Science; LINK programme
Date
18 March 2003
Reference
101878; 401 c689W
House
House of Commons
Statement on what management arrangements she has established for processing applications under the LINK Programme; and if she will make a statement. - Including figures.
Statement on what management arrangements she has established for processing applications under the LINK Programme; and if she will make a statement. - Including figures.
Asked by
David Chaytor
(Labour)
Answered by
Patricia Hewitt
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
5 March 2003
For answer on
18 March 2003
Answered on
18 March 2003
Mr. Chaytor: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what management arrangements she has established for processing
applications under the LINK Programme; and if she will make a statement. [101879]
Ms Hewitt: LINK is a pan-government scheme for the support of collaborative research between UK companies and the science base. It
consists of a number of individual programmes which have their own management procedures agreed by the sponsoring Departments in
line with overall LINK Scheme guidelines. Each programme funds a number of projects.
I believe that my hon. Friend has a particular interest in the LINK Basic Technologies for Industrial Applications programme. In the
case of this programme, my Department is the primary sponsor and has established a 2-stage process for assessing applications to
minimise unnecessary work for applicants whose projects may not be strong candidates for support.
Initial outline proposals, consisting of a 3-page project description with a covering application form, are submitted to the
programme co-ordinators by the advertised closing date. These proposals are then circulated to an appraisal panel of independent
industrial and academic experts, who assess the proposals against the programme's criteria for support, in particular, the degree of
innovation and the potential long-term wider benefit for UK productivity. The panel, which has an independent chairman from
industry, meets to review the proposals and recommends those which it considers should come forward as full proposals, bearing in
mind the funds available for commitment. The project applicants are then informed of the panel's recommendation by e-mail. A
telephone contact number and e-mail address are provided for applicants who wish to seek further feedback or discuss the panel's
recommendation. The target for the process from closing date to notification is 30 working days, which was achieved in the call
currently under way which involved 140 applications. With such a large number of applications, it is not possible to give detailed
feedback to all the applicants within the stated target times for processing.
The projects invited to submit full proposals are given a closing date for submission about two months after notification. They are
provided with feedback from the appraisal panel and visited by the programme co-ordinators or officials to provide advice on
preparing a full application. The full application consists of a 10-page project description with technical annexes plus a LINK
summary application form and application forms from each of the consortium members summarising company and financial information.
The full proposals are again circulated to the appraisal panel and additional input is sought from other experts where appropriate.
The panel meets to review all the proposals and recommends to DTI those which should be supported. The proposals are ranked to
enable the available funds to be assigned to the strongest proposals. The applicants are notified of the recommendations of the
panel which indicate that, subject to satisfactory financial arrangements being completed, the project will be offered grant
support. The target to complete the process from closing date to notification is 40 working days.
Information on the programme, including application forms and guidance notes for applicants, are available on the programme website
at www.basictechnologies.gov.uk, which is maintained by the programme co-ordinators.
Subjects
Companies; Applications; Finance; Technology; Research; Science; LINK programme
Date
18 March 2003
Reference
101879; 401 c690-1W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what guidance she has issued to the assessors of applications for funding to the LINK Programme in respect of the provision of feedback to unsuccessful applicants.
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what guidance she has issued to the assessors of applications for funding to the LINK Programme in respect of the provision of feedback to unsuccessful applicants.
Asked by
David Chaytor
(Labour)
Answered by
Patricia Hewitt
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
5 March 2003
For answer on
18 March 2003
Answered on
18 March 2003
Mr. Chaytor: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what guidance she has issued to the assessors of applications for
funding to the LINK Programme in respect of the provision of feedback to unsuccessful applicants. [101877]
Ms Hewitt: LINK is a pan-government scheme for the support of collaborative research between UK companies and the science base. It
consists of a number of individual programmes which have their own management and feedback procedures agreed by the sponsoring
Departments in line with overall LINK Scheme guidelines which aim to ensure that constructive and unambiguous feedback is provided.
Each programme funds a number of projects.
I believe that my hon. Friend has a particular interest in the LINK Basic Technologies for Industrial Applications programme. Within
this programme, all projects are assessed by an independent panel against the criteria for support for the programme, which are
included in the guidance notes to applicants and published on the programme website at www.basictechnologies.gov.uk. Aspects
considered in assessing project proposals include: the level of innovation including the potential for a step-change in industrial
capability; the risks and likely rewards in using the new technology; the feasibility of the proposed approach; the quality,
relevant expertise and resources of the consortium; the range of potential beneficiaries; the strength of the UK science base in the
technical areas involved; the potential for lasting benefit to UK capability beyond the life of the project; and the level of wider
industrial interest.
The programme coordinator provides feedback on the panel's recommendations to all applicants and has been asked to point out both
the strengths and weaknesses in the proposal in line with the assessment criteria above. Where possible, guidance is also provided
to the unsuccessful applicants on other possible sources of funding where these can be identified. As 140 outline proposals were
received under the current call, it was not possible to provide immediate detailed written feedback to all applicants. However,
applicants could telephone or e-mail the coordinator for further feedback on the panel's recommendation and over 50 consortia did.
With funds available to offer support to less than 20 projects, only the projects which best met all the criteria were invited to
come forward as full proposals and inevitably some good projects were rejected.
Subjects
Companies; Applications; Finance; Technology; Research; Science; LINK programme
Date
18 March 2003
Reference
101877; 401 c688-9W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, how much financial assistance has been given to the sensors technology, through the Link sensors for industrial applications programme in each of the last five years; what support is planned in the next two years; when the programme is next...
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, how much financial assistance has been given to the sensors technology, through the Link sensors for industrial applications programme in each of the last five years; what support is planned in the next two years; when the programme is next...
Asked by
Vincent Cable
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Patricia Hewitt
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
24 October 2002
For answer on
31 October 2002
Answered on
31 October 2002
Dr. Cable: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much financial assistance has been given to the sensors
technology, through the LINK sensors for industrial applications programme in each of the last five years; what support is planned
in the next two years; when the programme is next due to report; what assessment has taken place of the effectiveness of the
programme; whether the programme has a website; and if she will make a statement. [78264]
Ms Hewitt: Financial support under the LINK Sensors and Sensor Systems for Industrial Applications Programme for the last five years
was as follows:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Year Spend £k
1997-98 244
1998-99 727
1999-2000 1,187
2000-01 1,343
2001-02 1,237
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Subjects
Finance; Expenditure; Technology; Research; Science; LINK programme
Date
31 October 2002
Reference
78264; 391 c977W;391 c987W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, how much was invested by the Government, broken down by financial years, in the Foresight Vehicle LINK programme; whether the programme is still live; what assessment of the programme has taken place and at what cost; and if she will...
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, how much was invested by the Government, broken down by financial years, in the Foresight Vehicle LINK programme; whether the programme is still live; what assessment of the programme has taken place and at what cost; and if she will...
Asked by
Vincent Cable
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Patricia Hewitt
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
24 October 2002
For answer on
31 October 2002
Answered on
31 October 2002
Dr. Cable: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much was invested by the Government, broken down by financial
years, in the Foresight Vehicle LINK programme; whether the programme is still live; what assessment of the programme has taken
place and at what cost; and if she will make a statement. [77902]
Ms Hewitt: The Foresight Vehicle LINK programme is still open. Foresight Vehicle has just published a technology road map
identifying critical technology and research themes and this, taken together with the recommendations of the Automotive Innovation
andGrowth Team, will be used as the basis for future calls for proposals. Sponsor departments will be meeting in the next few weeks
to discuss the timing of the next call. It is too early for a full formal evaluation of the research to date, but on completion,
individual projects are assessed against their objectives by the Programme Management Panel. In addition, themed dissemination
events are held regularly and papers have been presented at international conferences. Details of the research portfolio and
progress are also made available on the Foresight Vehicle website www.foresightvehicle.org.uk
Government commitment is as follows (these figures include the EPSRC Innovative Manufacturing Initiative Road Transport Programme
which has been subsumed into Foresight Vehicle):
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Financial Years (£k) DfT DTI Highways Agency MoD EPSRC Total
Earlier years -- 1,060 -- -- 3,131 4,191
1997-98 -- 646 -- 62 3,810 4,518
1998-99 -- 1,544 -- -- 4,087 5,631
1999-2000 55 1,005 -- -- 3,903 4,963
2001-01 388 600 951 -- 4,168 6,107
2001-02 622 1,463 63 -- 1,277 3,425
2002-03 992 982 400 -- 1,161 3,535
Total 2,057 7,300 1,414 62 21,537 32,370
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Subjects
Finance; Motor vehicles; Technology; Research; LINK programme
Date
31 October 2002
Reference
77902; 391 c972-4W;391 c982-4W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what level of funding her Department intends allocating to support research to help industry take advantage of new technology and higher safety, environment and other standards of production. - Inc figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what level of funding her Department intends allocating to support research to help industry take advantage of new technology and higher safety, environment and other standards of production. - Inc figures.
Asked by
Keith Simpson
(Conservative)
Answered by
Elliot Morley
(Labour)
Answering body
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
25 March 2002
For answer on
10 April 2002
Answered on
10 April 2002
Mr. Keith Simpson: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what level of funding her Department
intends allocating to support research to help industry take advantage of new technology and higher safety, environmental and other
standards of production. [46744]
Mr. Morley: DEFRA jointly funds with industry research under the LINK banner; Government sponsors provide up to half the costs. LINK
aims to enhance the competitiveness of UK industry and the quality of life through support for managed programmes of pre-competitive
research and development. Funding for LINK is won in a competitive process so it is not possible to be precise about the allocation
for 2002-03, however it is likely to be in excess of £5 million.
Subjects
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; Finance; ICT; Environment protection; Industry; Safety; Research; LINK programme
Date
10 April 2002
Reference
46744; 383 c293W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if she will make it her policy to promote innovation in the textile and clothing industry by supporting a series of sector-specific events highlighting best practice in product innovation; if she will make it her policy to encourage wool textile...
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if she will make it her policy to promote innovation in the textile and clothing industry by supporting a series of sector-specific events highlighting best practice in product innovation; if she will make it her policy to encourage wool textile...
Asked by
Andy Reed
(Labour; Co-operative Party)
Answered by
Patricia Hewitt
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
30 January 2002
For answer on
6 February 2002
Answered on
6 February 2002
Subjects
Clothing; Finance; Innovation; Germany; France; Manufacturing industries; Marketing; Universities; Small businesses; Technology; Research; Wool; Textiles; Technology transfer; Trade associations; Italy; Eureka; Diversification; LINK programme
Date
6 February 2002
Reference
379 c970-2W;379 c965-7W; 33269;33278;33275;33279;33272;33271;33270;33277;33276;33280;33273
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what financial allocation has been made by his Department for research into the safety of mobile phones and telecommunication masts. - Inc figure.
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what financial allocation has been made by his Department for research into the safety of mobile phones and telecommunication masts. - Inc figure.
Asked by
Ian Gibson
(Labour)
Answered by
Kim Howells
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
8 January 2001
For answer on
16 January 2001
Answered on
16 January 2001
Dr. Gibson: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what financial allocation has been made by his Department for
research into the safety of mobile phones and telecommunication masts. [144674]
Dr. Howells: The Department has allocated £1.8 million of the Government funding towards the recently announced LINK research
programme in mobile communications and health.
Subjects
Aerials; Finance; Health hazards; Mobile phones; Telecommunications; Safety; Research; LINK programme
Date
16 January 2001
Reference
361 c216W; 144674
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what incentives for collaboration between business and universities are to be offered to Welsh and Scottish universities.
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what incentives for collaboration between business and universities are to be offered to Welsh and Scottish universities.
Asked by
Claire Curtis-Thomas
(Labour)
Answered by
Patricia Hewitt
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
8 May 2000
For answer on
12 June 2000
Answered on
12 June 2000
Mrs. Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what incentives for collaboration between business and
universities are to be offered to Welsh and Scottish universities. [121664]
Ms Hewitt: In addition to support from the devolved Administrations, Scotland and Wales also benefit from the LINK programme that
supports collaborative R&D projects involving HEIs and business, and from the TCS Programme which supports high quality graduates
working in companies, normally for two years, on technology transfer projects central to the needs of participating companies. In
addition, institutions in both Scotland and Wales are eligible to participate in Science Enterprise Challenge and University
Challenge.
The Government intend to publish a Science and Innovation White Paper following the Spending Review 2000. Among other things, it
will consider how we can further promote university-industry collaboration, and how we might better encourage our scientists,
engineers and business people to take full advantage of the UK's expertise in science and technology, to create wealth and improve
the quality of our lives.
Subjects
Business; Industry; Innovation; Scotland; Universities; Wales; Technology; Research; Science; LINK programme; Teaching company scheme
Date
12 June 2000
Reference
121664; 351 c463W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, what research is being undertaken by his Department (a) directly and (b) by contract to outside bodies on the genetic modification of potatoes; and if he will make a statement. - Inc figs.
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, what research is being undertaken by his Department (a) directly and (b) by contract to outside bodies on the genetic modification of potatoes; and if he will make a statement. - Inc figs.
Asked by
Paul Keetch
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Lord Rooker
(Labour)
Answering body
Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
23 March 1999
For answer on
30 March 1999
Answered on
30 March 1999
Mr. Keetch: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what research is being undertaken by his Department (a) directly
and (b) by contract to outside bodies on the genetic modification of potatoes; and if he will make a statement. [78878]
Mr. Rooker: My Department currently funds two research projects involving the genetic modification of potatoes. Both projects
involve strategic R&D to investigate genetic manipulation as a possible means to reduce the use of chemicals during the growth and
storage of potato tubers.
A three-year project within the Cell Engineering LINK programme started in 1996 and is due to end on 30 April. The LINK consortium
comprises the University of Leeds and Advanced Technologies (Cambridge) Ltd. Government contributors come from MAFF and the
Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council. The aim of this project is to investigate the feasibility of genetic
modification as a means of reducing damage by nematodes and thus reduce the use of chemical nematicides.
A second three-year project funded by MAFF at the University of Nottingham started in February 1999. HRI-Wellesbourne is a
sub-contractor on this project, which also receives an "in-kind" contribution from Advanced Technologies (Cambridge) Ltd. The aim of
this project is to investigate specific biochemical changes occurring in potato tubers which affect their storage behaviour.
Subjects
Biotechnology; Genetic engineering; Genetically modified organisms; Potatoes; Research; LINK programme
Date
30 March 1999
Reference
328 c659W; 78878
House
House of Commons
Statement on what steps he has taken to promote new green technologies and businesses. - Inc figs.
Statement on what steps he has taken to promote new green technologies and businesses. - Inc figs.
Asked by
Lord Taylor of Goss Moor
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
John Battle
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
1 December 1998
For answer on
17 December 1998
Answered on
17 December 1998
Mr. Matthew Taylor: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps he has taken to promote new green technologies
and businesses. [62383]
Mr. Battle: The Government recognise the enormous potential of the UK environmental industry to develop new green technologies which
both provide solutions to environmental problems and boost the UK economy. Support in promoting the activities of this sector is
provided through a number of activities.
DTI plays an important role in supporting the science and engineering base and business to develop and exploit sustainable
technologies and processes. Science and engineering research received a major boost of £1.1 billion as a result of the Comprehensive
Spending Review.
The Foresight Steering Group has identified sustainable technologies as a top priority. Specific initiatives under the Foresight
programme include the Vehicle Link programme (which has recently received a further £5 million) and sustainable technologies for a
cleaner world. Foresight is currently being developed to make it more effective and will be underpinned by the theme of sustainable
development. Earlier this month eighteen projects received Foresight LINK Awards, which bring together business and the science base
to work in areas identified by the Foresight programme as important to the future prosperity and quality of life of the UK.
The Cleaner Vehicles Task Force was launched last year to provide a partnership between government, manufacturers, users and
pressure groups to identify practical measures to reduce the environmental impact of vehicles.
The LINK scheme also plays an important part in developing and transferring knowledge on new sustainable technologies. Research
ranges from the development of biotechnologies to remove pollutants from streams and soils, to using earth observation satellites
for monitoring the natural environment.
The renewables industry received a boost last September with the announcement of the largest ever obligation on the Public
Electricity Suppliers to secure 1177 MW of new electricity generating capacity from renewable sources of energy.
The Environment Technology Best Practice Programme (ETBPP) produces high quality technical advice in relation to specific industrial
sectors including examples of businesses which have established good practice procedures and made use of new technologies.
The Joint DTI/DETR Environmental Markets Unit (JEMU) encourages development of British businesses in the environmental sector and
promotes the UK as a supplier of environmental solutions. JEMU's Business Plan, which was launched on 18 March by Michael Meacher
and myself, details planned activities designed to raise the profile of the industry both at home and overseas.
We are committed to working with business and others to identify and promote ways in which firms can move towards sustainability.
The Government's consultation document "Sustainable Business" published in June, set out some ideas on how this can be best
achieved. The responses from business--over 500 were received--were generally positive, and will be reflected in our new national
Sustainable Development Strategy which is due to be published early in the New Year.
Subjects
Business; Finance; Environment protection; Sustainable development; Technology; Research; Science; LINK programme; Foresight; Technology Foresight Steering Group
Date
17 December 1998
Reference
62383; 322 c707-8W
House
House of Commons
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what assistance he is giving to the development of fuel cell technology as a means of powering vehicles. - Includes figures.
To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what assistance he is giving to the development of fuel cell technology as a means of powering vehicles. - Includes figures.
Asked by
Bob Blizzard
(Labour)
Answered by
John Battle
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
23 October 1998
For answer on
27 October 1998
Answered on
27 October 1998
Mr. Blizzard: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assistance he is giving to the development of fuel cell
technology as a means of powering vehicles. [56729]
Mr. Battle: Fuel cells and reformers are supported by the Department's Advanced Fuel Cells Programme covering both transport and
stationary applications. Since 1992, the programme has supported over 92 projects with a total value of about £34m, including
industry contributions. Current work in the transport area includes a bus design studies project to evaluate fuel processing and
fuel options for urban bus applications, and the programme is in negotiation with a leading UK bus manufacturer to develop and test
the first UK fuel cell powered urban bus. Future support for fuel cells is being considered as part of the Government's review of
policy for new and renewable energy.
In addition, the Foresight Vehicle acts to co-ordinate publicly funded automotive R&D in the UK. Under the Department's supporting
Foresight Vehicle LINK Programme up to £11.5 million is being made available, to be matched by industry, for research into system
technologies for future vehicles. Proposals are currently being sought in the area of hybrid, electric and alternatively fuelled
vehicles which includes technologies for onboard storage of gas and development of fuel cell electric vehicle powertrain systems.
The DTI's LINK Applied Catalysis and Catalytic Processes programme is providing a grant of £227k over two years to a consortium
developing a low cost hydrogen generator for cars to support fuel cell deployment.
In addition, the EPSRC has been supporting basic and applied research in its "directed" fuel cells programme for the past 4 years.
It has funded 26 projects totalling £3.7m. Fuel Cells are expected to form part of its £3.5m p.a. Renewable and New Energy
Technologies Programme which is due to be launched next year.
Subjects
Buses; Finance; Motor vehicles; Alternative fuels; Research; Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council; LINK programme; Fuel cells
Date
27 October 1998
Reference
318 c137-8W; 56729
House
House of Commons
Deposited by
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Deposited papers
Author
Department of Trade and Industry
Committed on
30 September 1998
Originated on
1 August 1998
Received on
30 September 1998
Subjects
Equipment; Manufacturing industries; Research; LINK programme
Lords Library location
HINF 98/1833
Date
30 September 1998
Reference
HINF 98/1833
To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, if he will comment on public funding to manufacturers to establish or expand (a) fuel cell, (b) electric and (c) solar car or component factories in the United Kingdom in each of the last five years.
To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, if he will comment on public funding to manufacturers to establish or expand (a) fuel cell, (b) electric and (c) solar car or component factories in the United Kingdom in each of the last five years.
Asked by
Tom Brake
(Liberal Democrat)
Answered by
Glenda Jackson
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
23 June 1998
For answer on
29 June 1998
Answered on
29 June 1998
Mr. Brake: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on public
funding to manufacturers to establish or expand (a) fuel cell, (b) electric and (c) solar car or component factories in the United
Kingdom in each of the last five years. [47725]
Ms Glenda Jackson: Funding to develop new technologies for the automotive industry is available under the DTI Foresight vehicle LINK
programme and fuel cells are also supported under the Advanced Fuels Cells Programme.
The DETR is providing £6.5 million to the Energy Savings Trust's Powershift programme to help stimulate the market for alternative
fuels by providing grants towards the purchase of alternatively fuelled vehicles produced with proven technology which is already in
the market place.
The DTI provides Regional Selective assistance for the safeguard and creation of jobs in Assisted Areas. All manufacturing
industries could be eligible for support except those which are subject to special EU restrictions.
Subjects
Finance; Industry; Government assistance; Electric vehicles; Motor vehicles; Alternative fuels; Research; Regional selective assistance; LINK programme; Fuel cells
Date
29 June 1998
Reference
315 c92W; 47725
House
House of Commons
Statement on what action she is taking to raise the profile of the Foresight programme.
Statement on what action she is taking to raise the profile of the Foresight programme.
Asked by
Claire Curtis-Thomas
(Labour)
Answered by
John Battle
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
10 June 1998
For answer on
17 June 1998
Answered on
17 June 1998
Mrs. Curtis-Thomas: To ask the President of the Board of Trade what action she is taking to raise the profile of the Foresight
programme. [45874]
Mr. Battle: There is substantial activity across a broad front. Shortly after the general election the President of the Board of
Trade called for an audit of Foresight activities across Government. The audit provided a baseline against which future agendas
could be set and progress monitored.
In response to the audit, a group of Ministers with responsibility for Foresight in Government Departments was set up to provide
top-level co-ordination of Foresight across Whitehall. The President of the Board of Trade requested regular progress reports. The
first of these was published on 16 June.
The progress report shows that Government departments and public sector organisations have substantially increased their involvement
in Foresight over the last six months, to its highest level ever.
The Foresight Steering Group has been restructured to broaden the range of interests represented in Foresight.
The success of projects such as the Foresight Vehicle-- which develops technologies for cleaner, greener, and safer cars of the
future--and the Clear Zones initiative for innovative urban transport systems, highlights the contribution that Foresight is making
to sustained competitive advantage and enhanced quality of life.
The Foresight LINK Awards attracted 91 bids from consortia wishing to pursue projects addressing Foresight priorities. This builds
on the earlier Foresight Challenge competition.
Research Councils and Departments are supporting nineteen LINK programmes that reflect Foresight priorities, worth a total of £170
million.
The first of the new SMART Foresight Awards, recognising visionary work in smaller firms, will be made on 17 June.
Proposals for consultation on the next round of Foresight were published in March. Over 35,000 copies have already been distributed.
Many of the early responses come from organisations which are new to Foresight.
The next round of Foresight will include a number of cross-cutting themes which reflect the Government's high-level priorities.
These include sustainable development, future cities, crime control, and the aging population. Early work to develop plans for
particular themes is involving a number of departments.
Subjects
Finance; Technology; Research; Science; LINK programme; Foresight; Technology Foresight Steering Group
Date
17 June 1998
Reference
314 c240W; 45874
House
House of Commons
To ask the President of the Board of Trade, pursuant to her Answer of 27th January, Official Report, 305 c162W, on research and development, what research her Department is assisting in Lancashire; and if she will list the assisted projects in Chorley. - Includes table.
To ask the President of the Board of Trade, pursuant to her Answer of 27th January, Official Report, 305 c162W, on research and development, what research her Department is assisting in Lancashire; and if she will list the assisted projects in Chorley. - Includes table.
Asked by
Lindsay Hoyle
(Labour)
Answered by
John Battle
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
4 February 1998
For answer on
18 February 1998
Answered on
18 February 1998
Mr. Hoyle: To ask the President of the Board of Trade, pursuant to her answer of 27 January 1998, Official Report, column 162, on
research and development, what research her Department is assisting in Lancashire; and if she will list the assisted projects in
Chorley. [28453]
Mr. Battle: We are assisting several projects in Lancashire through SPUR (Support for products under research) and
SMART--feasibility projects for companies with up to 50 employees. SPUR ended in April 1997 and became incorporated in the new SMART
scheme. Grants for the last year are listed. No projects have been funded in the constituency of Chorley.
The Office of Science and Technology also provides funding through its LINK programme. Support is also provided for basic and
strategic research undertaken in Higher Education Institutes. Information on expenditure by County is not held centrally.
Most recent SPUR and SMART projects in the Lancashire area £
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Scheme Company Offer date Offer amount Project title
SMART Fluorogas Ltd., 16.12.97 41,512 High Purity Fluorine
Thornton, Cleveleys Generator
SPUR 95 B & M Longworth Ltd., 07.07.97 53,586 Chemical Reclamation
Blackburn System
SPUR95 Consultant Gas Eng. 31.07.97 147,000 Continuous Conveyor Kiln
Ltd., Skelmersdale unit
SPURA Custom Knight 31.07.97 102,000 Crusader Golf
International Ltd.,
Preston
SPUR95 Gledhill (Water Storage) 16.10.97 67,921 Electric Combi
Ltd., Blackpool
SPUR95 Group Eng Ltd., Leyland, 11.09.97 147,000 Lighting Panel Explosive
Preston Envir
SPUR 95 H W Communications, 22.05.97 103,515 Multifunctional Nested
Lancaster Codec
SPUR95 Helical Springs Ltd., 10.07.97 32,967 Small Gas Turbine System
Lytham St. Annes
SPUR95 Have Fun (Footwear 19.09.97 109,795 Low Cost Pu Wellington
Ltd.), Accrington Mfg
SPUR95 J Fairburn Ltd., Burnley 20.05.97 32,558 Portable Pipe Cutting
Machine
SPURA Milbrook Instruments 27.01.97 123,000 The Chemical Microscope
Ltd., Blackburn
SPUR95 Noral Micrologists Ltd., 22.05.97 101,498 Flex Bdm Project
Blackburn
SPUR 95 Systems Eng Lancaster 18.07.97 101,498 Electric Cavity Scanning
Sonar
SPUR95 J&W Gardner Eng., 23.04.97 37,500 First Six Wheel Tractor
Lancaster
_________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Subjects
Industry; Government assistance; Lancashire; Research; LINK programme; SMART awards
Date
18 February 1998
Reference
28453; 306 c659-60W;306 c658W
House
House of Commons
To ask the President of the Board of Trade, what assistance her Department is giving to research and development in the north-west. - Inc figures.
To ask the President of the Board of Trade, what assistance her Department is giving to research and development in the north-west. - Inc figures.
Asked by
Lindsay Hoyle
(Labour)
Answered by
Barbara Roche
(Labour)
Answering body
Department of Trade and Industry
Type
Written questions
Status
Answered
Tabled on
21 January 1998
For answer on
27 January 1998
Answered on
27 January 1998
Mr. Hoyle: To ask the President of the Board of Trade what assistance her Department is giving to research and development in the
north-west. [25411]
Mrs. Roche: The DTI is assisting research and development in the north-west primarily through the new SMART initiative, aimed at
helping small and medium sized enterprises (SME) to improve their competitiveness by developing new products and processes to the
benefit of the national economy. £3.98 million has been offered since 1 April 1997 in the north-west alone (excluding Merseyside).
Nationally, DTI provides assistance under the LINK scheme. Since 1988 the Government has spent over £13 million supporting LINK
projects in the north-west out of its total commitment of over £18 million.
Other indirect assistance includes joint working with the North West Partnership to produce a Regional Innovation and Technology
Action Plan; funding for the North West Regional Industrialist; support for Faraday/Foresight NW; the Teaching Company Scheme; the
Post Graduate Training Partnership and College Business Partnerships.
Subjects
Industry; Government assistance; Research; North West; LINK programme; SMART awards
Date
27 January 1998
Reference
305 c162W; 25411
House
House of Commons