§ 60. Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Minister of Health what progress has been made in establishing a central research and intelligence section in his Department capable of undertaking the studies recommended by the Guillebaud Committee.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithA Statistical Branch has been established with a chief statistician, four professional statisticians and lay staff. The branch is wholly engaged on statistical inquiries and research of a kind which should lead, ultimately, to the provision of information of the type recommended by the Guillebaud Committee.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopHas the right hon. and learned Gentleman's attention been drawn to the very valuable recent report of the Acton Society Trust, which emphasises the very limited field of research that is possible with the very small staff available at the Ministry of Health at the moment? Will the Minister look at this again, particularly in view of these strong recommendations in this very valuable report?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithYes, my attention has been drawn to the report of the Acton Society Trust, but it certainly would not be right for the hon. Member to imply that there is not a great deal of statistical activity going on within my Department.