§ 25. Mr. Hannanasked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science what consultative facilities exist between his Department and industry, particularly the older traditional industries in Scotland, for using science to transform their technology and methods of management.
§ Mr. Denzil FreethThe Department of Scientific and Industrial Research's research stations and the industrial research association laboratories devote up to 25 per cent. of their effort to technical information and advisory work. Two booklets recently published by D.S.I.R. "Technical Services for Industry" and "Science in your Methods" demonstrate how the Department and research associations are dealing with this problem. All of these facilities are available to Scottish industry, 1131 and I have already described the additional work which the Department is currently undertaking in Scotland in reply to a Question by the hon. Member for Edinburgh, East (Mr. Willis).
§ Mr. HannanCan the Minister say how many inquiries have been made by Scottish employers or industrialists, and what use is made of this surplus? Further, can he say what consideration is being given to the process of producing smokeless fuels from coals other than anthracite fuel, in view of the increasing demand for smokeless fuels, and the closing of Scottish pits?
§ Mr. FreethI would not like to give an answer to the last part of the hon. Member's supplementary question without notice, As for his first point, if he will put down a detailed Question—because such a Question must involve all the institutions to which industry may apply for information—I will do my best to provide him with the information.