§ Mr. Dellasked the Secretary of State for Employment what requirements he imposes regarding the completion of non-departmental research projects which he finances; whether he is satisfied that these requirements are adhered to; whether there is non-productive expenditure; and how much.
§ Mr. BryanMy Department requires persons or bodies undertaking non-departmental research projects to complete such projects within the time and cost determined at the outset unless an extension of time or increase in cost has been granted.
I am not aware of any case in recent years when these requirements have not been adhered to, with two minor exceptions where papers to the value of £200 were commissioned but not delivered and for which no payment was made.
It is in the nature of research that results do not always fully come up to expectations; but there has been none in recent years that I should regard as having been non-productive.