HC Deb 06 April 1967 vol 744 cc440-1
32. Dr. David Owen

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what steps he has taken to encourage greater transferability between students and teachers studying scientific and technical subjects in this country with their European counterpart.

Mr. Denis Howell

We would like to see an increase in European scientific inter-change particularly at post-doctoral level, and we are discussing how this might best be achieved. The Department makes funds available, through the Research Councils, for post-graduate studentships and fellowships in science and technology and these can be held in Europe.

Dr. Owen

I welcome that reply, but would my hon. Friend not agree that, if technological co-operation is to be meaningful, there is an urgent need for closer integration of education, particularly between this country and the Six?

Mr. Howell

Indeed, we strongly support that view, and in the various European organisations of which we are a member we are doing our best to initiate this sort of inter-change.

Sir E. Boyle

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the issue of educational interchange between Britain and Germany was recently brought up at the Anglo-German Parliamentarians' Conference at Koenigswinter? Is he aware that there is strong feeling that not enough has been done to follow up recent meetings of European Education Ministers? Will he draw this question to the attention of his right hon. Friend, as it is one to which many hon. Members on both sides of the House attach importance?

Mr. Howell

I was not aware of the discussions at Koenigswinter; I am glad to take note of what the right hon. Gentleman said, and I will certainly draw it to my right hon. Friend's attention. There have been specific discussions in respect of the attitude of Germany and ourselves on this matter, and we are very anxious to do everything we can to help.

Mr. Ridsdale

Would the hon. Gentleman draw to his right hon. Friend's attention the lack of support for the French business school in Paris which some of our people are attending? It is very disappointing and the Government could do much more on this.

Mr. Howell

I will take note of that point and have it investigated by the Department.

Mr. Molloy

Would my hon. Friend consider approaching those local authorities which have town twinning arrangements, where this aspect of the original question might be assisted?

Mr. Howell

That may be a very useful suggestion and I will certainly note it.