§ 17. Mr. Maclennanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what assistance his Department has been giving to the promotion of research in the Scottish universities in the economic field; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Dr. MabonThe Scottish Office has, in recent years, made a number of arrangements for co-operation with Scottish universities in economic research and, since 1964, has directly commissioned 17 1441 research projects in the economic field. Encouragement has also been given to local authorities and other bodies to commission economic research.
§ Mr. MaclennanWhile I welcome this massive support for the study of the economy carried out by Scottish universities, would my hon. Friend agree that a systematic study of the exploitation of Scotland's natural resources, land and sea, mountain and river, would best be undertaken by a university based in the Highlands?
§ Dr. MabonWe must use the facilities which exist at present. I would not like to comment on that point at this moment. I accept that since 1964 the greatly increased interest in research into the economy of Scotland reflects the importance of understanding the problems and of marshalling the potential of the Scottish economy.
§ Mrs. EwingWill the Minister say whether part of the promotion of economic research in the universities involves the payment of Scottish university professors to carry out a running examination into vital economic questions so that they may give the Minister advice?
§ Dr. MabonThe 17 research projects which are mentioned are estimated to cost £229,000, £193,000 of which the Scottish Office will bear on its Vote. As to the other question of continuing advice to the Secretary of State, the hon. Lady will know that the Secretary of State has economic consultants to give him continuing advice.