§ 67. Mr. Higgsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that under present conditions, although there is a large volume of openings for industrial chemists in this country and the applications for places in chemistry schools in universities greatly exceed those available, there is still great delay in providing the necessary facilities for the provision of the laboratories and accommodation necessary for such students at the universities; and whether he is satisfied that sufficient funds are available to the University Grants Committee in this connection.
§ Sir S. CrippsI am well aware of the importance of an adequate supply of university graduates trained in chemistry. The number of students taking honours courses in that subject has doubled since the war, and new laboratories are under construction or planned for erection in the near future at a number of universities. As the hon. Member will be aware, the building operations of the universities have to be adjusted to what 783 is possible within the limits of the Government's investment programme, but I am satisfied that the claims of the scientific departments are receiving due consideration from those responsible.