HC Deb 03 August 1961 vol 645 cc1629-30
17. Mr. de Ferranti

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many of the second secretaries, third secretaries, under-secretaries and assistant secretaries in Her Majesty's Treasury hold degrees or qualification in physics, mathematics or engineering; and what percentage this is of the total numbers in the above grades.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Sir Edward Boyle)

Seven, or about 9 per cent., of the members of these grades on the Treasury strength hold degrees in mathematics or physics. None is a qualified engineer.

Mr. de Ferranti

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, so far as one can see, about 20 per cent. of these gentlemen were educated at Balliol College, Oxford? Does not he feel that, particularly in view of the Reports of the Plowden Committee and of the "Three Wise Men", it might be a good thing to increase the percentage of those with experience of quantitative science? If he does think so, is he prepared to do anything about it?

Sir E. Boyle

This is a big question which we might profitably debate another time. A great deal of thinking is being done about the importance of skilled and qualified advice to Ministers. In the Treasury we receive today far more rigorous advice on economic ques- tions than might have been the case 20 or 30 years ago.

Dr. King

Had the Chancellor received any advice from his scientific advisers when he decided to revise the Burnham award to science teachers?

Sir E. Boyle

I think that is another question.

Mr. Speaker

So do I.

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