§ 7. Mr. Willeyasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what inquiries are at present being conducted to ascertain the distribution of research scientists in industry.
§ Mr. H. NichollsIt is planned to carry out a second inquiry into the number of qualified scientists and engineers employed in Great Britain, similar in scope to the first inquiry carried out in 1955–56. The results of the first inquiry were published in the Report on Scientific and Engineering Manpower in Great Britain in October, 1956. These showed distribution by type of employment as well as by industry and by qualification. Employers will again be asked to indicate the number of scientists and engineers who are mainly engaged on research and development.
§ Mr. WilleyIn view of the fact that there is a shortage of these scientists, does the Parliamentary Secretary appreciate how important it is to see that they are in the right places? Will he follow up any such inquiries by giving advice and assistance to scientists to go where they will be most influential?
§ Mr. NichollsI will draw the attention of my noble Friend to the point made by the hon. Gentleman. It was felt that three years should elapse before the second investigation, which should start next autumn.