MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 1962
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We cannot turn our backs on such developments if we are
to prosper. So we in Britain are shifting the emphasis of our effort towards the industries of the future micro-electronics, fibre optics, bio-technology information technology, and computer software. Government support through research institutions,
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public purchasing and grants has substantially increased since I
became Prime Minister.
I also regard the Government as having a crucial role to play in education and training for the new technologies, particularly in encouraging schools and colleges to provide the necessary facilities. We now have micro-computers in every secondary school and have just started to put them into primary schools. We have computer training centres in every large city.
All this is part of the provision of the framework for free enterprise which I regard as the proper duty of Government.
I want now to refer to two implications which I think that this has for economic relations between Britain and Hong Kong.
First, the framework for enterprise can also be used by overseas companies which manufacture in Britain itself. Britain has much to offer to those investing there
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one of the most stable politcal systems in the world;
access through membership of the European Community to a
market of 270m people;
secure energy supplies;
a first class reputation for scientific research and invention; falling inflation and interest rates;
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prudent financial policies; and
- a highly skilled service economy.
On top of those assets, I believe that we are now providing an environment for enterprise which those used to Hong Kong will find
attractive.
The second implication is for our trade. I hope that British industry will become an increasingly formidable competitor in both British and Hong Kong markets.
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/IT IS