HC Deb 28 April 1953 vol 514 cc1950-1
29. Mr. Lee

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the output of scientists and technologists per head of population in Great Britain.

Mr. R. A. Butler

The number of scientists and technologists coming from the universities and technical colleges of Great Britain with degrees, Higher National Certificates and Higher National Diplomas, or their equivalent, in the academic year 1951–52, is estimated to be one in about 2,600 of the population.

Mr. Lee

Is the Chancellor aware that upon the results of Government activities in this direction may well depend our chances of maintaining our position in the world, particularly in engineering, and is he satisfied that we are making progress at least comparable with that of the United States, Switzerland and the Soviet Union?

Mr. Butler

This has always been a subject near my heart, and the Government are proceeding to do their best to improve the facilities. The hon. Member asked a Question on 28th February, and the proportion has ever so slightly improved since then.

Mr. Woodburn

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that though Scotland produces a large number of graduates. there is still great difficulty in persuading engineering and other firms to employ the scientists and technologists in the works, and industry requires a great deal more encouragement to make use of the highest and best form of knowledge?

Mr. Butler

I am aware of that.