§ 96. Mr. Philip Noel-Bakerasked the Secretary of State for Defence what are the main developments which have caused Her Majesty's Government's expenditure on military research to increase from £250 million in 1964–65 to £270 million in 1966–67; whether he is satisfied as to the extent of increased national security which has resulted from this additional expenditure; and whether he will consider the transfer of the additional military research personnel to civil work.
§ Mr. MasonAt constant prices, expenditure on defence research and development is slightly lower in 1966–67 than it was in 1964–65, but the reshaping of 317W the equipment programme will ensure that the needs of the Forces are met in a more timely and economic fashion than before. The last part of the Question does not arise.