§ 53. Mr. Jannerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that, although some universities now have funds at their disposal to expand in accordance with national requirements, they are unable to translate these funds into the materials and buildings which they require; and whether, in consultation with the University Grants Committee, he can assist the universities in these essential matters.
§ The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. Dalton)Such difficulties are inevitable in view of the shortage of building materials, but the University Grants Committee have made recommendations to the Ministry of Works on this subject.
§ Mr. JannerCan the Chancellor say whether he has any idea as to the adequacy of accommodation for students who want to enter the universities?
§ Mr. DaltonWe are doing our best and. as I have already said in answer to the Question, I furnish the financial basis for the provision of accommodation. The difficulty is with physical supplies of materials and availability of labour, which are also required for housing and so on, but there is no lack of good will and no lack of a concerted effort to overcome the difficulty.
§ The following Question stood upon the Order Paper in the name of Mr. C. SMITH:
§ 58.—To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the specific recommendation of the Committee on Scientific Manpower, that consideration should be given to the foundation of a new university, has been remitted to the University Grants Committee with the other recommendation of the Committee on Scientific Manpower.
§ Mr. C. SmithI must apologise for an error in the Question. The word " recommendation " should appear in the plural.
§ Mr. DaltonThe answer to what I thought was the Question on the Paper was, " Yes, Sir, with a view to advice being tendered to me."