HC Deb 21 May 1963 vol 678 cc173-4
18. Dr. Bray

asked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science what would be the cost to the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research of providing a postal computing service so that every O-level candidate in mathematics could be given practice in the elements of computer programming.

Mr. Denzil Freeth

Such a service could not be provided by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research within its present statutory responsibilities.

Dr. Bray

Is the hon. Member aware that his Department is the only one in the Government that is likely to appreciate the need for such a service, and that it would do a great deal to enliven interest in the teaching of mathematics? Will he consider offering the Minister of Education the use of such a service?

Mr. Freeth

The hon. Member is wrong in not ascribing to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Education an interest in matters scientific and an interest in the teaching of mathematics equal to that which my noble Friend and I possess.