§ 11. Sir B. Jannerasked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science how many grant-aided research associations have so far been able to obtain a rating reduction under Section 11(4,b) of the Rating and Valuation Act, 1961; and, in view of the need to give positive encouragement to research, what advice is being given to rating authorities with regard to this matter.
§ Mr. Denzil FreethThe information is not available since this is a matter for negotiation between the autonomous industrial research associations and the local authorities concerned. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government has impressed upon local authorities the importance of giving sympathetic consideration to applications from bodies which are eligible under Section 11(4) of the Rating and Valuation Act, 1961, for a reduction or remission of rates.
§ Sir B. JannerIs the hon. Gentleman saying that he is not in a position to decide whether this is being put into effective service? Is it not an extremely important matter that the Government should be aware whether this method of existing research is effective and is extensively used? What will he do about altering the position, which, to judge from his Answer, is useless?
§ Mr. FreethIf the research associations consider the situation unsatisfactory, doubtless they will make representations to my noble Friend, who will, naturally, consider them with sympathy.