HC Deb 28 May 1957 vol 571 c191
8. Mr. Partridge

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, in view of the competing claims on the limited scientific manpower of this country made by defence and civilian research, if the Government will set up an executive body to study and direct the nation's organisation for scientific research and development in all fields.

Mr. H. Nicholls

As explained by the Prime Minister in answer to the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent, Central (Dr. Stross) on 31st January, complex machinery already exists for coordinating the national scientific research effort. The position is constantly watched but my noble Friend is not satisfied that it is necessary to establish a new organisation of the type suggested.

Mr. Partridge

Will my hon. Friend ask his noble Friend to give this matter constant attention?

Mr. Nicholls

I can assure my hon. Friend that my noble Friend is aware of the importance of this, and will keep it very clearly under review.

Dr. Stross

Can the Parliamentary Secretary tell the House how many members of the Cabinet have had any scientific education?

Mr. Nicholls

That is a question of which I should want notice.