HC Deb 13 May 1965 vol 712 cc683-4
17. Mr. Walters

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science how much is spent by the Medical Research Council on asthma research; and what is its forward programme.

Mr. Crosland

Research relevant to asthma forms part of the Council's extensive programme of work on respiratory and other related conditions, and it is not possible to estimate expenditure on asthma alone. Every opportunity will be taken by the Council to promote new and promising lines of study in this field.

Mr. Walters

But is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Asthma Research Council is the only body in this country which is systematically tackling research on asthma? It is spending £10,000 in the current year, which is all that it can afford. It has three important projects on which it could spend £4,500 but which are held up. Will the Minister consider giving the Council a grant?

Mr. Crosland

The Medical Research Council is always willing to consider any application by qualified workers or groups for medical research projects in this or any other field. Perhaps I could take this opportunity of saying that I know of the work of the Asthma Research Council. I have a high regard for it, and I am pleased that it has a direct link with the Medical Research Council. I am certain that there is a place for organisations of this kind, as well as for the more official and formal Medical Research Council.