HC Deb 28 April 1952 vol 499 cc995-6
6. Mr. C. R. Hobson

asked the Minister of Supply what is the estimated cost of running and maintaining the Telecommunications Research Department for the year 1952–53.

Mr. Sandys

It is not desirable to give information of this kind about defence research establishments.

Mr. Hobson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, apart from radar research, there is also research in the telephone service taking place there? The figure can be given at Dollis Hill, and, surely, it can be provided.

Mr. Sandys

As the hon. Gentleman will see from the answer to his next Question, the two establishments are quite different.

7. Mr. Hobson

asked the Minister of Supply in what way the Telecommunication Research Station maintained by his Department differs in purpose from the Telecommunications Research Station at Dollis Hill of the General Post Office.

Mr. Sandys

The Ministry of Supply Telecommunications Research Establishment undertakes research, development and design work on radar and other electronic equipment for the Royal Air Force and Naval Aviation. The Dollis Hill Research Station undertakes research in connection with the public telecommunications services of the General Post Office.

Mr. Hobson

In view of that reply, does not the right hon. Gentleman think that it would be better to change the name of the Department? Is he sure that the whole of the information he has given is correct?

Mr. Sandys

The information is correct. If the hon. Gentleman has any suggestions about the re-baptism of the establishments, I shall be glad to consider them.

Mr. A. Woodburn

Is the right hon. Gentleman fully satisfied that there is an ample relationship between all the bodies that are studying telecommunications and electronics to see that there is not too much duplication and overlapping, and that there is a common exchange of knowledge?

Mr. Sandys

There is no overlapping. The General Post Office does some work for the Services, and therefore it can be said that they are complementary.

Mr. Charles Ian Orr-Ewing

Have the functions of these two establishments changed? If not, why does not the former Assistant Postmaster-General know what their functions are, without having to put Questions on the Order Paper?