§ 20. Mr. Swinglerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will set up a committee to investigate to what extent 215 the size and distribution of the staff of geological experts at the disposal of Government Departments and publicly-owned industries and services are adequate and effective.
§ Mr. Alan GreenNo, Sir.
§ Mr. SwinglerIs the Financial Secretary not aware of substantial evidence that if more geologists were employed, and if surveys were better co-ordinated, the Government and local authorities might save a substantial sum of money by avoiding mistakes in the construction of roads, hospitals, houses and other buildings, especially in areas of mining subsidence? If the hon. Gentleman is not acquainted with this fact, will he have a survey made of these areas to put himself in possession of considerable information?
§ Mr. GreenI believe that the hon. Gentleman has a specific Question down to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health, but I have no reason to believe that the existing numbers and distribution of geologists give cause for concern, and I cannot accept the implications in his supplementary question.
§ Mr. SwinglerWill the hon. Gentleman consult those responsible for organising, say, the Geological Survey and obtain their opinion on the matter?
§ Mr. GreenConcern has already been expressed about this matter and consultations have been taking place. I see no reason to believe that there is a shortage or a maldistribution of these people.