§ 34. Mrs. Angela KnightTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what estimate he has as to the number of women involved in research in science and engineering in (a) 1969 and (b) at the latest available date.
§ Mr. David DavisThere are no figures available centrally to indicate the number of women engaged in research in the private sector. University statistics show an increase in the number of full-time women postgraduates in science and engineering from 1,400 to well over 8,000; and in full-time academic staff from under 900 to well over 3,000. Those figures do not include the former polytechnics or the Open university.
§ Mrs. KnightAlthough the numbers have evidently increased dramatically since 1969 when I went to university, women still represent a relatively small proportion of those involved in science and engineering. Does my hon. Friend agree with me about two of the reasons for that—first, the advice that girls receive at school, which needs to be improved and, secondly, the continuing lack of awareness of the fact that science and 19 engineering qualifications can lead not just to research but to a wide range of opportunities in business, industry and even politics?
§ Mr. DavisI share my hon. Friend's opinion about improvements in the level of advice leading to more scientific careers being pursued. After all, it is clear that businesses where there are highly technically qualified senior managers do better. My hon. Friend referred to politics. She is a scientist, as am I, but perhaps the best example is to be found in the other place, where there is someone who, having dominated this Chamber for over a decade, would reinforce our view.
§ Mr. MillerGiven the importance of the question, will the Minister look carefully at the make-up of the teams governing the foresight exercise and ensure that the number of women increases? Hon. Members on both sides of the House recognise that it is important to appoint the best people to the teams. We welcome the fact that a woman has now been appointed to one of the teams, but will the Minister consider the matter carefully and seek to increase the representation of women in that sector?
§ Mr. DavisI am glad that the hon. Gentleman recognises that a woman has been appointed to the Technology Foresight steering group, although I have to say to him that she was appointed because she was the best person for the job. Subject to that, I am entirely willing and happy to see significant improvements in the number of women involved in all aspects of science, including that which directs where we shall go in the future.