HC Deb 07 May 1964 vol 694 cc1447-9
30. Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what percentage of the cost of research and development for which he is responsible is carried out in Northern Ireland and in development districts, respectively.

Sir E. Boyle

9.5 per cent. of the expenditure of the four Research Councils is in support of research institutions in development districts, and rather less than ½ per cent. in support of institutions in Northern Ireland. 14 per cent. of the Atomic Energy Authority's expenditure is incurred in development districts.

31. Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what steps he is taking to ensure that an adequate portion of the research and development carried on by his Department takes place in Northern Ireland.

Sir E. Boyle

The primary consideration in carrying out a programme of research and development must be scientific efficiency. Subject to this, however, the Research Councils have for some years been requested to bear in mind the needs of areas of high unemployment, including Northern Ireland. The results of research are, of course, available to the whole country.

Mr. Stratton Mills

Does not my right hon. Friend recognise the importance of having this kind of work widely spread in development districts and in Northern Ireland? In view of the figures he gave me in answer to Question No. 30, showing that only ½ per cent. of this work is being done in Northern Ireland, will he consider situating the next research station in Northern Ireland?

Sir E. Boyle

We must realise that the primary purpose of these stations is research and development and that they must be situated where they can operate most efficiently. But my right hon. and learned Friend is aware of the importance of all these matters to Northern Ireland and we shall certainly bear it in mind carefully when, for example, dealing with subjects like research grants to universities and postgraduate awards.

Mr. Lawson

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the location of this research is perhaps at this time the most important factor determining the location, and the continuing location, of industry? Will he bear this in mind when considering where these stations shall be?

Sir E. Boyle

Certainly, research institutions closely connected with an industry should, if possible, be situated near the centre of that industry. I agree that the two things are closely linked together.