HC Deb 28 June 1960 vol 625 cc1126-7
17 and 18. Mr. Woodburn

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) why the preparation of Scottish research students in science and technology in Scotland is only 8 per cent. of the Great Britain figure; and whether he is prepared to examine the whole scheme of education in science in Scotland with a view to expanding Scottish interest;

(2) why there were only 14 applications for advanced course studentships in Scotland in 1958–59 and only four out of 11 taken up, out of a United Kingdom total of 402 awards with 184 taken up, and a somewhat similar disparity in 1959–60; and what proposals he has to overcome this disinterestedness among Scottish students.

Mr. N. Macpherson

I am informed that the figure of 8 per cent. applies only to research studentships granted by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research and that there are also Scottish research students in Scotland who receive assistance from other sources. The number of awards of research studentships depends upon the number of proposals for researches submitted. Awards of advanced course studentships can only be made where advanced courses are available at universities and other advanced institutions. My right hon. Friend welcomes the fact that the number of such courses in Scotland is increasing and will give every encouragement to them within his sphere of responsibilities.

Mr. Woodburn

Will the Secretary of State look into the question of why so few Scottish students apply for these special facilities? Will he also consider whether there should not be an inquiry into the provision of these facilities at Scottish universities? Is it not undesirable that all these things should be channelled down to Oxford, Cambridge and one or two other universities in England? Would it not be much better to build up the possibility of taking these advanced courses elsewhere?

Mr. Macpherson

We should distinguish straight away between advanced courses and actual projects of research. I dealt with both in my Answer. Projects of research depend upon proposals which are submitted, and these are not matters entirely in my right hon. Friend's hands. We will certainly give it further consideration.