§ 18. Mr. Willisasked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science what steps have 1125 been taken by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research during recent months to improve communications between science and management in Scotland; and what additional staff has been recruited for this purpose.
§ Mr. Denzil FreethIn consultation with the Scottish Education Department, the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research will train and assist lecturers to be appointed shortly at the Central Technical Institutions in Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh and Paisley and to be charged with improving communications between science and technology. The D.S.I.R. branch office in Edinburgh will be suitably strengthened to provide the necessary supporting services for this interesting development. In addition a member of the D.S.I.R. Industrial Operations Unit has been transferred to the National Engineering Laboratory at East Kilbride.
§ Mr. WillisI am sure we are all glad that this recommendation of the Toothill Committee is being put into effect, but can the hon. Gentleman say when this is likely to start?
§ Mr. FreethI understand that the selection board for the first vacancy is to meet tomorrow. The second vacancy is expected to be filled later this month, and the other two early next year.