HC Deb 11 July 1967 vol 750 cc395-6
10. Mr. Dalyell

asked the Minister of Technology what plans he has to promote international co-operation on a European basis in the technology of the development of the sea-bed; and what reply he has made to the representations he has received from Dr. Wenk, President Johnson's adviser on the development of the marine environment on this subject.

Mr. Benn

There is already considerable international co-operation in many aspects of the technology of the sea-bed.

I discussed this with Dr. Wenk during his recent tour of Europe and when I was in Washington in May. Further discussions will be held.

Mr. Dalyell

Is my right hon. Friend aware that we are all convinced of the good will and drive of the Government in the matter of marine science? Is it likely that by the time Dr. Wenk comes again in October there will be a clearer indication of Government intentions?

Mr. Benn

We are making good progress. This concerns a number of Departments, as my hon. Friend knows. I would not want him to think that it is only when I meet Dr. Wenk that I give consideration to this question. A great number of subjects, from the Channel Tunnel to natural gas and a number of other aspects of seabed technology, are under active study and development, and we hope to carry this a stage further.

Sir J. Eden

Would the right hon. Gentleman make sure at this stage that oceanographical research study and development does not reach the same situation as did the development of outer space, due to the lack of a single Ministry in charge of the programme? Would he say which Minister will tackle this problem?

Mr. Benn

This is a quite separate question, and I believe that the hon. Gentleman has got one down to me later on a related matter.

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