HC Deb 06 April 1965 vol 710 cc226-7
19. Mr. Wingfield Digby

asked the Minister of Power the total public expenditure on research for the electricity industry in 1964; and how much of this was undertaken by the Central Electricity Generating Board and how much by other public corporations.

Mr. John Morris

Total research expenditure by the Electricity Council and boards in 1964–65 was about £7 million, of which over £6 million was by the Central Electricity Generating Board. The Atomic Energy Authority estimates that its expenditure in 1964 on developing various reactor systems for power generation was about £18 million. Expenditure by other bodies, such as the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research and the National Coal Board, on research of interest to the electricity industry amounted to about £½ million.

Mr. Digby

Is the Parliamentary Secretary satisfied that there is no undue overlapping between the Atomic Energy Authority and the Board?

Mr. Morris

I am satisfied that no promising research project is being neglected. If there is any overlapping, perhaps the hon. Member will bring it to my attention.