HC Deb 18 March 1964 vol 691 cc1355-6
7. Dr. A. Thompson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received about the possibility of providing a site in Scotland for the proposed new World Health Organisation Research Centre; what replies he has sent; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Stodart

My right hon. Friend has received six letters and the Scottish T.U.C. has discussed the matter with me. The World Health Organisation has not yet reached a decision on this project; but if it goes ahead my right hon. Friend will make sure that Scotland's claims to provide a suitable site are closely considered. Replies in this sense are being sent to the representations received.

Dr. Thompson

Will the Under-Secretary bear in mind, however, the great urgency of this matter and that although discussions are taking place in Geneva, bids are being submitted by member countries? Czechoslovakia has staked a claim and France, Italy and Austria are expected to make claims for sites this week. In view of the fact that for many years the United Kingdom has conscientiously paid its dues to the United Nations without ever having a single major agency situated in this country, this is a unique opportunity to bring to Scotland a great research centre costing £100 million and employing more than 1,000 scientists. This could be one of the biggest things for Scotland for many years. Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that although negotiations are proceeding in Geneva, this is a matter of the utmost urgency here and now?

Mr. Stodart

I assure the hon. Member that my right hon. Friend will take urgent note of what he has said.

Mr. Brewis

Would not my hon. Friend agree that this project would provide many useful jobs for trained personnel whom we would like to keep in Scotland?

Mr. Stodart

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Ross

This is an appropriate agency to have in Scotland in view of all our traditions in this kind of work. While we thank the Under-Secretary for his Answer, may I ask him to urge upon his right hon. Friend when—or if—he sees him that we would be glad if he would raise some greater spark of enthusiasm within the Cabinet for British support of this scheme?

Mr. Stodart

I assure the hon. Member that I shall see my right hon. Friend. Unlike the hon. Member, I am not aware of what sparks are or are not raised within the Cabinet.