§ Mr. Wareingasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science (1) what matters concerning the financial position of the Medical Research Council were discussed at his recent meeting with the chairman of the council; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what representations he has received from the Medical Research Council about the adequacy of current financial provision for the council; what response he is making; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrookeAt the meeting in July, the chairman of the Medical Research Council explained the council's difficulties, the measures it had taken to remain within its cash limit, and their implications. My right hon. Friend took note but was unable to respond at the time to the chairman's request for additional funds, as the 1984 public expenditure survey was still in progress.
My right hon. Friend announced yesterday that the science budget in 1985–86 will be £587 million. This 198W represents an increase of £14 million over previously announced planning figures. He awaits the advice of the Advisory Board for the Research Councils on the distribution of the money between the bodies funded by the science budget, of which the Medical Research Council is one.