§ Mr. David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he intends to implement the recommendation of the Geddes Committee on Shipbuilding that a clear responsibility be put on the Navy Department to ensure that their most advanced technological knowledge and experience is placed at the disposal of those responsible for longer-term research 24W aimed at improving the competitiveness of British-built merchant ships; and how he will do this.
§ Mr. MasonYes, this recommendation is being implemented subject only to minor limitations imposed by naval security. Formal links including the appointment of liaison officers have been established between the British Ship Research Association and the Navy Department. We hope that both organisations will benefit from the new arrangements.