HC Deb 28 May 1962 vol 660 cc956-7
18. Mr. W. Hamilton

asked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science What new proposals he has for encouraging greater participation by Scottish industry in Government research and development.

Mr. Denzil Freeth

It is the constant aim of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research to promote greater use by all industry, whether based in Scotland or not, of research and development provided out of public funds, and the arrangements are continually being adapted to achieve this end.

Mr. Hamilton

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that we are concerned not so much about aims as about results? Does he realise that the Toothill Committee made pertinent recommendations on this point also, and that there is a feeling in Scotland that the Government are not pursuing nearly energetically enough the recommendations of the Toothill Committee on this and other matters? Can he say whether a comprehensive statement will be made by the Government very shortly about their attitude towards the recommendation of the Toothill Committee in toto?

Mr. Freeth

Some of the Toothill Committee's recommendations are not the responsibility of my hon. Friend.