HC Deb 28 May 1963 vol 678 cc1104-5
21. Mr. Milan

asked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science the number of grant-aided research organisations now enjoying full membership of the Government scheme; and how many of these organisations are Scottish based.

Mr. Denzil Freeth

Fifty-two. One of the research associations is centred in Scotland and three others have branch laboratories or use structure testing rig there. The liaison services provided by all the associations enable them to assist their members in Scotland.

Mr. Millan

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is a great deal of evidence to show that industry in Scotland does not use research facilities to the extent it should? Would the Parliamentary Secretary say what special steps his Department takes to bring to the attention of industrialists in Scotland and other areas of high unemployment the necessity of using the facilities afforded by research associations and Government laboratories?

Mr. Freeth

Both the D.S.I.R. and the Office of my noble Friend publicise the work of the research associations; and there is later on the Order Paper a Question about the special liaison grants, which has this particular aspect of their work in mind.

Sir H. Legge-Bourke

Would not my hon Friend agree that this attempt to wave the flag of the Cross of St. Andrew so strongly in science may lead, if it were to be implemented, to action which is highly unscientific? Would he do his best to instil into the minds of hon. Members who represent Scottish constituencies the fact that it is possible that information gained and research work done in England can be made available in Scotland, too?

Mr. Freeth

I have never myself regarded the Border as an impenetrable barrier to the dissemination of information.