HC Deb 25 February 1958 vol 583 cc183-4
19. Mr. Willey

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what action has been taken regarding the conclusions on research and development contained in paragraph 26 of the Annual Report of the Advisory Council on Scientific Policy, 1956–57.

Mr. H. Nicholls

Paragraph 26 makes three points. On the first, by approving the expansion programme for the universities and technical colleges, the Government are playing their part. This expansion will ensure an increased supply of scientists and technologists. On the second, it is up to industry to take full advantage of skill made available for civil research work by the limitation of the defence programme. On the third point, the Advisory Council is now studying in greater detail the methods of financing research at universities, including the provision of supporting staff.

Mr. Willey

While thanking him for that reply, may I ask the Parliamentary Secretary whether as yet there has been any marked redundancy and what steps the Government are taking specially to ensure that the fullest use will be made of these men with high qualifications?

Mr. Nicholls

There is no sign at all of serious redundancy, and in the replacing of any of these men the normal services of the Ministry of Labour are available. It keeps in close contact.