§ 31. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Minister of Technology if he will state the progress made in the study commissioned by his Department with the Underwater Engineering Group of the Construction Industry Research and Information Association into the industrial research and development needs of the world's seas; and when the report will be published in whole or in part.
§ Mr. FowlerA team of three marine technology experts, set up by the Construction Industry Research and Information Association, has begun work on a study of the research requirements of United Kingdom industry in the fields 426 of diving technology and underwater engineering, and an interim report is expected by the end of July, 1969, with, it is hoped, a final report by the end of 1969 or early in 1970.
§ Mr. Hector HughesDoes the Minister realise that from Britain's point of view the most important part of this research relates to the seas surrounding Britain, and, from Aberdeen's point of view, the North Sea? Will he make an early report on those aspects?
§ Mr. FowlerWe are well aware that the most important part of the ocean from the British point of view is the sea surrounding Britain. I am sure that the importance of the area east of Aberdeen has not escaped the notice of Her Majesty's Government.