§ 4. Sir H. Legge-Bourkeasked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science how the level of civil scientific research in the United Kingdom compares with that in other countries.
§ Mr. Denzil FreethA broad comparison can be made with the United States. This indicates that expenditure on civil research and development may be of the general order of 1¼ per cent. of the gross national product of both countries. Without appearing complacent, I think it is satisfactory that we do not appear to be behind in this respect. It is not feasible at present to make such a comparison with other countries.
§ Sir H. Legge-BourkeCan something be done to ensure that if there is any reduction as a result of inter-dependence in the amounts spent on research and defence matters there will be an equivalent increase in the amount spent on civil research?
§ Mr. FreethThis is the sort of problem which I can assure my hon. Friend that my noble Friend has very much in mind.