NATIONAL RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

HC Deb 21 January 1971 vol 809 c1273

Q8. Mr. Carter

asked the Prime Minister if he will seek to address the next meeting of the National Research Development Corporation.

Mr. Maudling

I have been asked to reply. My right hon. Friend has no plans to do so.

Mr. Carter

I thank the right hon. Gentleman for that not entirely unexpected reply. In the absence of a visit, will he urge his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry to make a public statement on the subject of Government-backed research and development, instead of making announcements from time to time of cuts in this vital section of the British economy?

Mr. Maudling

My right hon. Friend said on 14th December that he was considering this matter and would make a statement.