§ 19. Dr. GibsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what plans he has to co-ordinate the work of scientific "hands-on" centres across the UK. [57261]
§ Mr. Chris SmithI have no such plans. However, the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts (NESTA) will shortly be publishing a consultation document, outlining, among other things, its proposals for a programme which aims to contribute to the UK public's knowledge and appreciation of science, technology and the arts. Subject to the outcome of the consultation, such "hands-on" centres may be able to bid for contracts being awarded by NESTA or enter into joint venture with them. This would obviously be a matter for the Chairman and Trustees of NESTA.