HC Deb 27 April 1965 vol 711 cc202-4
17. Mr. William Hamilton

asked the Minister of Technology what progress is being made in the studies designed to stimulate the establishment in development districts of new science-based industries.

27. Mr. Wainwright

asked the Minister of Technology what contribution the National Research Development Corporation will make towards the Government's policy of stimulating regional development, particularly in the field of technologically advanced industry.

Mr. Cousins

It is one of the principal functions of the regional offices of my Department to advise on technological development in their regions. The National Research Development Corporation, which works in close touch with my regional offices, is already supporting several projects in under-employed regions. I have reminded the Corporation of the importance of keeping regional problems specially in mind. Clause 4 of the Development of Inventions Bill now before Parliament will enable the Government to consider sponsoring development projects which might contribute to regional growth but which do not meet the Corporation's normal criteria.

Mr. Hamilton

Does my right hon. Friend recognise that, in view of the callous neglect of the previous Administration of the development districts, there should be a sense of urgency in tackling this problem? Does he further recognise that in central West Fife, in particular, there is the imminent closure of a coal mine employing more than 1,100 men and that there is no possibility of redeploying those men in the existing coal mines? Will he undertake to direct the attention of the N.R.D.C. to that area with a view to establishing a publicly-owned industry there which is science-based?

Mr. Cousins

Because of the neglect in past years, we are having to take the urgent steps suggested.

Mr. Hamling

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. May I ask what has happened to Question No. 16?

Mr. Speaker

It was answered with Question No. 2. I did look at the hon. Member, but I did not realise that he was not aware of what had happened.

Sir G. Nicholson

Will the right hon. Gentleman make clear for the information of the House the degree to which the N.R.D.C. is obliged to consider wider political or semi-political questions? Is it not a fact that its main task is to investigate projects from the purely scientific angle?

Mr. Cousins

Primarily from the research and development angle, yes.

Mr. Bessell

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether there is any programme in existence for basing industries of this sort in the South-West?

Mr. Cousins

Not without notice. But the regions are considering the need for basing industries in all regions.