§ Mrs. Renéee Short asked the Secretary of State for Social Services why his Department has ended its financial support for the Birmingham research group and the Oxford survey of childhood cancer; and if he will take steps to ensure that their work continues.
§ Dr. Vaughan:The period of support agreed by the Department ended on 30 September 1981 but, despite severe pressures on research budgets, we can extend support until 31 January 1982. The university and the researcher have accepted this offer.
We understand that the researcher is making an application for support to the Medical Research Council. It must be for the council to decide, in the light of scientific assessment as well as its financial situation, to what extent further support can be given.