§ 23. Mr. Blenkinsopasked the Minister of Technology what action he is taking to make full use of the research facilities of the International Research and Development Company on Tyneside.
§ Mr. FowlerWe have arranged for discussions between the staff of the International Research and Development Company and officials at the National Engineering Laboratory to see what work could be placed with I.R.D.
§ Mr. BlenkinsopIs my hon. Friend aware of the capacity that is available in this research establishment, of the close links with universities in the area, and of the fact that there has been so far a miserable allocation of Government research work in the region?
§ Mr. FowlerWe are well aware of the problem. I.R.D. is operating at the level of about £1 million a year, and about 40 per cent. of its income is from existing Government contracts. The work which is likely to be placed by N.E.L. is distinct from the proposals already put forward by I.R.D. and is work which is likely to be within the competence of I.R.D. and which might normally be placed with industry by N.E.L.
§ Dame Irene WardIs the Joint Parliamentary Secretary aware that we in the North-East feel very strongly about this matter? It was raised in the debate which we had on the East Coast. What is the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster doing to try to induce his Department to do something more for us than is being done at present?
§ Mr. FowlerWe are well aware of the hon. Lady's passions; but, if she wishes to know what my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster is doing, she must table a Question to him.