§ 13. Mr. DafisTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what assessment he has made of the effect of the prior options review of the British Geological Survey on the progress of the geological survey of Wales. [13516]
§ Mr. DafisMay I remind the Minister of the furore that erupted in Wales two years ago following the announcement that the BGS office for Wales in Aberystwyth was to be closed? May I remind the Minister that we were assured at the time that the so-called rationalisation would strengthen the ability of the BGS to carry on with its surveying work in Wales? In view of the fact that large areas of Wales do not have detailed geological maps, and in view of the importance of this information in such maps for economic development, the environment and planning, what guarantee can he now give that the assurances made at that time will be honoured?
§ Mr. PageI, too, was disappointed that the Welsh authorities did not provide the £80,000 a year for five years to keep the Aberystwyth office operating. The purpose of the review of all public service research establishments is to see that we get the best science for the substantial resources put in by the taxpayer. Until the review reports back, however, there is little that I can say.