HC Deb 28 January 1964 vol 688 c191
4. Mr. Pentland

asked the Lord President of the Council and Minister for Science how many British scientists, attending Canadian universities on fellowships, were persuaded to return to Britain after obtaining doctors' degrees by the selection board representing the British Civil Service, the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority and the Central Electricity Generating Board, in the years 1961, 1962, 1963 and 1964.

Mr. Hogg

The total number of British scientists and engineers who returned from Canada as a result of the Board's activities were 13, 23, and 12 in 1961, 1962 and 1963, respectively. Of these the numbers with doctors' degrees obtained at Canadian universities are 2, 3 and 2, respectively. Figures for 1964 are not yet available.

Mr. Pentland

I thank the right hon. and learned Gentleman for that reply, but is he satisfied with the numbers who are returning? Secondly, are we to understand that the Selection Board only interviews students in Canada and not scientists already working there? Thirdly, does we have the full co-operation of the Canadian Government on this method of approach?

Mr. Hogg

We want all suitable personnel we can get and we do not confine ourselves to the universities. Many of the people we interview are working in private firms. I should require notice of the hon. Member's final question.