§ 43. Dr. Brayasked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science whether he is aware that the 1961 Census showed there were 50,000 more economically active qualified scientists and technologists than had been estimated by the Advisory Council on Scientific Policy, and that this underestimation of the use of scientists and technologists means there will be a still growing shortage of over 10,000 qualified persons by 1965; and what action he is taking to remedy the effects of the underestimate.
§ Mr. Denzil FreethI am aware that the Census shows employment of qualified scientists and technologists in sectors not covered by earlier reports of the Committee on Scientific Manpower. It does not follow that estimates of demand for employment should be proportionately increased. The Committee on Scientific Manpower 151W is considering these results, and those of the third of its triennial surveys of scientific manpower, which has recently been completed. The interpretation of the new data is not simple, and I advise the hon. Member to await the Committee's forthcoming report.