§ 6. Mr. Willeyasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what further information he has received regarding the emigration of scientists and engineers.
§ Mr. H. NichollsFurther information about the emigration of qualified scientists and engineers has been obtained from a number of leading firms in response to a request from the Committee on Scientific Manpower. The investigation is still continuing and the Committee hopes to obtain information from university professors of engineering and from the professional institutions.
§ Mr. WilleyI am obliged to the Parliamentary Secretary for that reply. The hon. Gentleman will be aware that concern has been expressed in some quarters about this emigration. Will he try to get the information as soon as possible?
§ Mr. NichollsYes, Sir. I think it would he helpful if I say that most of the firms who were approached were of opinion that their emigration losses were not excessive in relation to the size of their technical staff and their annual intake of scientists and engineers. I cannot give details because the information was taken in confidence.
§ Mr. WoodburnIs the hon. Gentleman aware that a great deal of this loss occurs before the men reach the firms, and that many big concerns are waiting on the university doorstep and booking these people before they finish their examinations?
§ Mr. NichollsThe right hon. Gentleman will note that in my Answer I said that the investigation is continuing and the Committee hopes to obtain the information from the university professors and professional institutions.