HC Deb 03 February 1959 vol 599 cc177-8
7. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, whether he is aware that the Committee of Public Accounts has described certain evidence relating to the Jodrell Bank radio telescope given before it in Session 1956–57 as gravely inaccurate and misleading; what steps have been taken to remove misunderstanding and to submit more accurate evidence in the future; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. H. Nicholls

The evidence to the Committee of Public Accounts in 1956–57 was given in good faith by the Accounting Officer of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, on his understanding at the time. Later, further evidence of the extent of consultation between the engineering consultants and the Professor of Radio Astronomy came to light, which the Department brought to the notice of the Committee. It is the constant endeavour of the Accounting Officer and his staff to ensure that evidence given to the Committee is accurate. My noble Friend would not think it right to interfere with the content of such evidence.

Mr. Ellis Smith

I appreciate that reply, as far as it goes, but the Parliamentary Secretary will be aware that the men who do this kind of work have got where they are as a result of years of study and very hard work. They have got there on merit, and can do the work only on merit. In those circumstances, can he give an undertaking that in future they will not be subjected to this kind of treatment?

Mr. Nicholls

The Question is quite in keeping with the hon. Member's constant endeavour to see fair play, and I can assure him that in this instance the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research was not lagging behind. Immediately it was brought to the Department's attention that there had been some slight mistake in the evidence of the Accounting Officer the Department carried out a thorough investigation and brought the matter again to the attention of the Committee, after which a full statement was made putting the whole matter right.

Mr. L. M. Lever

Is the Minister aware of the great contribution which Jodrell Bank now makes in the technological field, and which it will continue to make in the future? Is not he aware that this is a national asset, for which the university authorities in Manchester should be adequately thanked, and that they should be assisted in purchasing it completely?

Mr. Nicholls

We recognise the great importance of Jodrell Bank. As the hon. Member will know, one of his hon. Friends is hoping to raise the matter in debate on Friday.