§ Mr. Michael BrownTo ask the President of the Board of Trade when he will respond to the final report of the ad hoc committee chaired by Sir Arnold Wolfendale set up to review the contribution of professional scientists, engineers and research students to improved public understanding of science, engineering and technology. [38961]
§ Mr. LangThe Government are grateful for the work of Sir Arnold and the committee, and welcome the final report, which I am publishing today.
The report make a number of important recommendations aimed at improving the contribution made by professional scientists, engineers and research students to improving the public understanding of science, engineering and technology.
Recommendations 7.12 and 7.14 are addressed to the Office of Science and Technology and will be implemented as soon as possible. Other recommendations are longer term. I have drawn to the attention of colleagues in the Department for Education and Employment, the Scottish Office, the Welsh Office and the Northern Ireland Office the recommendations addressed to the universities and funding councils which fall within their areas of responsibility.