HC Deb 12 July 1962 vol 662 cc1494-5
16. Mr. Walker

asked the Minister of Education whether he will take powers to establish a central library containing publications from throughout the world upon subjects related to business and management education.

Sir D. Eccles

I agree with my hon. Friend that adequate provision of books on these subjects is very important. The libraries of the British Institute of Management and other bodies are already well stocked and I believe that it would be better to develop these facilities rather than to set up a new central library under my Department.

Mr. Walker

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, in spite of the progress made in this sphere of education over the last two years, this country is considerably behind Western Germany and the United States and, therefore, many of the publications in this branch of education have been published in those countries? Will he bring to the attention of those who have these libraries the need to secure those publications from Western Germany and the United States?

Sir D. Eccles

I certainly will encourage the extension of these libraries The colleges of advanced technology and other technical colleges also have libraries. There may well be a case for a translation service.

17. Mr. Walker

asked the Minister of Education whether he will sponsor a conference upon business and management education to take place within the United Kingdom and to which he will invite leading experts and tutors in business education from throughout the world.

Sir D. Eccles

My hon. Friend will be glad to hear that the British Institute of Management is planning a conference on these lines to take place early next year. I welcome this initiative.

Mr. Walker

While I welcome this news, may I ask my right hon. Friend to ensure that every endeavour is made to give maximum publicity to the findings and results of the conference?

Sir D. Eccles

Yes, Sir; I will.