asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if there has been any advance within the EEC on the proposed industrial and technological policy programme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - EEC Policy Programmes.
40.
The first stage of an industrial and technological policy programme was adopted by the EEC Council in its resolution of 17th December, 1973. This covers a wide range of activities including technical obstacles to trade, public supply contracts, advanced technology industries and company law. Action at Community level is proceeding in all areas involved though the timetable has not been met in all cases.
The twice-yearly reports to the Oireachtas on developments in the Communities have contained information on progress in the industrial policy area and information on further developments will be included in future reports.
Would the Minister agree that in the nature of our economy the question of technological advance is perhaps the most important factor in our industrialisation programme?
The Minister would have no difficulty in agreeing with that general proposition.