§ 10. Mr. E. Smithasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Aircraft Production whether he is satisfied with the liaison arrangements between his Department and the scientific, research and development departments of the Air Ministry; what steps have been or are to be taken to co-ordinate aeronautical science, research and development in industry; and have the representative aeronautical scientists been recently consulted by his Ministry?
§ Colonel LlewellinThe scientific research and development departments of the Air Ministry were taken over from that Ministry by this Ministry on its formation. In order to avoid unnecessary overlapping, this Ministry co-ordinates all aeronautical research and development in the industry. Representative aeronautical scientists are frequently and regularly consulted by us mainly through the Aeronautical Research Committee.
§ Mr. SimmondsCan my hon. and gal-land Friend say whether these aeronautical scientists in his Ministry feel that they have the strong support of his Noble Friend and himself in the important work they are doing?
§ Colonel LlewellinI think it is well understood that we must rely very largely on the assistance of these gentlemen for the development of our research work.
§ Mr. E. SmithAs the Question also refers to the meteorological service, will the Parliamentary Secretary give an undertaking to investigate this matter personally, and, if necessary, appoint a cornrnittee to inquire into the whole issue raised in that Question with a view to reporting?
§ Colonel LlewellinI think that the meteorological part of the Question comes under the Air Ministry.