§ 13. Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what timescale she has in mind for suggestions sent to her, arising from her Green Paper on the Framework for Government research and development.
§ Mrs. ThatcherThe timing is set out in paragraphs 6 and 7 of the Government's Green Paper.
§ Mr. DalyellWhat exactly is the rationale behind saying to the learned societies and the research councils, "You have got only until 14th January to give us your detailed opinion on the most controversial report of recent times"?
§ Mrs. ThatcherThey have not got only until 14th January. The final date for consultations is 29th February.
§ Mr. PalmerWill the right hon. Lady impress on her right hon. Friend the Leader of the House the need for an early debate after the Recess on this important subject, which is causing great consternation in scientific circles?
§ Mrs. ThatcherI will draw my right hon. Friend's attention to what the hon. Gentleman has said, but consultations will be continuing for the two months after Christmas and it is for the House to consider at what period it is best to hold a debate.