HC Deb 10 April 1963 vol 675 cc1263-4
23. Mr. Lawson

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty how many of the 7,140 staff employed in the Royal Naval Scientific Service on 1st April, 1963, were employed in Scotland; and whether the proportion is likely to increase in the near future.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

The number employed on 1st April, 1963, was 552. No significant increase is foreseen in the near future.

Mr. Lawson

In view of the very well-known inventive and mechanical genius of the Scottish people, does not the hon.

Gentleman think that the Royal Navy is depriving itself of most valuable manpower? Will he ensure that the number of research workers in Scotland is vastly multiplied by the next time we ask a Question such as this?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

I cannot promise to do that, though as a Scot, albeit a Sassenach by habitation, I appreciate the hon. Gentleman's comments. There is a great deal of engineering skill in Scotland and there are three important research establishments which contribute to our research and development effort in a vary well worth while way.