HC Deb 10 May 1966 vol 728 cc190-1
7. Mr. Moonman

asked the Minister of Technology if he will set up a central agency to interpret research findings in the field of human relations in order to assist the effectiveness and general running of industry.

Mr. Dell

The Ministry of Technology is, of course, very interested in the findings of research in the human relations field, particularly in the social and human effects of technological change. The Ministry has made arrangements to keep in touch with what is going on. But the application of the findings to the general running of industry is best done as at present by the various Departments of Government in relation to their own responsibilities.

Mr. Moonman

My hon. Friend's reply will disappoint a large number of research workers in the field, as well as potential research workers. He might give consideration—

Mr. Speaker

Order. The hon. Gentleman must ask a question.

Mr. Moonman

I would ask my hon. Friend to give consideration to the possibility of setting up an agency which would bring together all the agencies to which he refers.

Mr. Dell

I am sorry if I have disappointed my hon. Friend. I accept that this is a most important question—in fact, one of the problems with which the Ministry is very much concerned is the whole problem of getting the results of research into industry. We are considering how to help in this matter, but primarily it is a matter for management and, within the Government, for the Ministry of Labour.