§ Mr. Bishopasked the Prime Minister why Professor Margaret Burbridge, the successor to the retiring director of the Royal Greenwich Observatory and Astronomer Royal, has not been appointed Astronomer Royal, thus breaking a tradition of nearly 300 years; and if he will consider the continuation of such dual appointments.
§ The Prime MinisterThe present Astronomer Royal has not yet retired. In considering his successor the hon. Member's views will be borne in mind.