§ 1. Mr. C. Hughesasked the Lord President of the Council and Minister for Science if he will authorise the establishment of a faculty of veterinary science in one of the constituent colleges of the University of Wales.
§ The Lord President of the Council and Minister for Science (Mr. Quintin Hogg)The report of the Departmental Committee of Inquiry into the future needs for veterinary graduates under the Chairmanship of the Duke of Northumberland is now expected during the next two months. It would be premature to consider the establishment of a new veterinary school in advance of the report.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that many Welsh students are unable to take up this profession because of the lack of places in provincial universities? In view of the great need for veterinary surgeons in this country, and especially in the under-developed countries, will the right hon. and learned 224 Gentleman take action as soon as the report comes out to ensure that discussions take place with the University of Wales authorities?
§ Mr. HoggI will certainly take action to ensure that it comes before the University Grants Committee, which, no doubt, will do exactly as the hon. Member suggests.
§ Mr. CrossmanWill the right hon. and learned Gentleman also bring to the University Grants Committee's attention the disappointing record of the Cambridge Veterinary School, which, I think, cost£500,000 to build, costs £200,000 to run, has a staff of 40 and produces 15"vets" a year? Can the right hon. and learned Gentleman make sure that that is not repeated?
§ Mr. HoggThis Question relates to a new veterinary college in Wales, but I will bear in mind what the hon. Member has said.