HC Deb 02 March 1967 vol 742 cc690-1
24. Mr. Hastings

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether he will now make a statement about the future of the College of Aeronautics, Cranfield.

Mr. Goronwy Roberts

The governors of the college have recently announced their decision to submit an application to the Privy Council for a charter to establish an institute of technology, at Cranfield, formed from the existing institutions there and with power to award its own degrees.

Mr. Hastings

The governors may have done that, but does the Minister realise that in 1965, in answer to a Question on the subject, we were informed that the recommendations of the governing body had been received by the Government, and still there is no definitive statement of policy with regard to this important institution? Is there not a vital place for Cranfield, and is it not up to the Government to make up their minds and give the college some sense of purpose?

Mr. Roberts

There is certainly a place for Cranfield and the work which it has done and will do. The governors have moved to make this application to the Privy Council. I could not properly comment on that pending the decision of the Council on the application for a charter.

Mr. Hogg

As the Lord President of the Council is responsible for the work of the Privy Council, has the hon. Gentleman inquired of his colleague when a decision can be expected?

Mr. Roberts

I understand that the governors will be submitting their application within the next few weeks. I should not think that a decision by the Council will be delayed. The first move must be the submission of the application for a charter by the Governors.