HC Deb 19 January 1971 vol 809 cc721-2
Q8. Mr. Carter

asked the Prime Minister if he will make an official visit to the Government-sponsored research and development organisations.

Mr. Maudling

I have been asked to reply.

My right hon. Friend has at present no plans to do so.

Mr. Carter

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that that Answer will cause grave disquiet within Government research and development organisations as the Government have, since the election, announced various cuts in research and development within organisations which have a vital bearing on the efficiency and modernisation programmes of British industry?

Mr. Maudling

This is an important question. As the hon. Member knows, the Government are conducting a complete review of our industrial R and D activities to see what part is appropriate to Government finance and what part should be paid for by industry.

Captain W. Elliot

Is my right hon. Friend aware that in Government research and development there is a great deal of flabby, useless expenditure?

Mr. Maudling

I am sure that there economies to be made. A great deal of enormously valuable work has been done. Our basic principle is that work which should and could be paid for by industry should be paid for by industry.