HC Deb 24 May 1962 vol 660 cc655-6
16. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer which London medical schools have applied through the University Court to the University Grants Committee for funds to set up departments of virology; and what has been the result.

Mr. Brooke

These are matters entirely within the responsibilities of the University Grants Committee and the University of London. It would be a breach of the established relationship between the Government and the universities if I were to inquire into them.

Mr. Robinson

Is the Chief Secretary aware that virology is one of the growing branches of medicine, and that at least one London teaching hospital— Guy's— has been trying desperately to set up such a department; that it has the skilled professional staff available, and needs only the financial support of the University Grants Committee, which it cannot get as a result of the right hon. Gentleman's policies?

Mr. Brooke

I know the hon. Gentleman's interest in the universities and in the medical schools. I have myself in years past been a member of the Court of London University, and I am absolutely clear that it would be quite wrong for the Government to interfere in the work of the Court of the University of London, or in decisions taken by the University Grants Committee in regard to that body.