§ 24. Mr. Wingfield Digbyasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the total amount spent annually on all branches of oceanography in the United Kingdom.
§ Sir E. BoyleThe total expenditure in the United Kingdom in 1964–65 on all branches of oceanography and marine biology is estimated to be about £2.17 million.
§ Mr. DigbyHow does this compare with the expenditure of other maritime nations? In view of the undoubtedly increased importance of oceanography from the commercial point of view, as well as from the defence point of view, would my right hon. Friend re-examine this figure and see whether there is not a case for augmenting it?
§ Sir E. BoyleI will certainly consider the question of what is spent by other countries. This figure excludes major capital items and also excludes the costs of university departments met from University Grants Committee funds. I will gladly see if I can give my hon. Friend further information.