More subsidy for research

Press, 4 October 1977, Page 11

More subsidy for research

Parliamentary Reporter Increases in subsidies payable to all industrial research associations have been announced by the Minister of Science and Technology (Mr Gandar). The upper limits on expenditure which qualify for Government subsidy have been raised 20 per cent for all research associations. “In addition to the percentage increases, three associations serving industries of national importance will be able to claim subsidies on greatly increased levels of expenditure,” said the Minister.

The Coal Research Association w'ould receive a dollar-for-dollar subsidy to match the industry contribution on expenditure up to $600,000. The previous limit was $300,000. The higher limit would allow greatly expanded research for the coal industry, which had assumed greater importance as a local source

of energy, said Mr Gandar. The level of subsidy to the Wool Research Organisation has been raised 50 per cent to $900,000 and the Dairy Research Institute will qualify for a one-for-one Government subsidy on all expenditure up to SI.2M — an increase of one-third on the previous limit. “The increased subsidy levels reflect the Government’s appreciation of the valuable contribution research associations make to the development of local and export industries, and a determination to ensure that adequate funds are available for research on the application of new and improved technology,” Mr Gandar said. Eleven research associations are funded jointly by the industries they serve. The Government subsidy is paid through the D.S.I.R. annual vote.