HC Deb 08 December 1943 vol 395 cc977-8
66. Mr. Hutchinson

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works under what conditions he is prepared to grant facilities to firms engaged in the production of technical or scientific products to construct new research laboratories or to extend existing laboratories required to enable such firms to undertake research necessary for the development of their post-war trade?

Mr. Hicks

Subject to the overriding demand of the Government Building Programme and of war damage and other essential housing works, sympathetic consideration has been given and will be given to applications to construct or extend research laboratories which have the support of the Departments concerned.

Mr. Hutchinson

Does not the Minister consider that the existing procedure involves application to so many Departments that it is very difficult to obtain a decision?

Mr. Lipson

How many applications have been received?

Mr. Hicks

I could not say at the moment how many have been received. Post-war problems have not so far been recognised as having priorities.