§ Mr. Biffenasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science when he expects to make a decision on the siting of a new radio telescope; and what consideration has been given to the Oswestry district as a suitable site.
§ Mrs. Shirley WilliamsI assume that the question relates to the next telescope for the Manchester University group of radio-astronomers. Oswestry is among a number of sites chosen for investigation up to 100 miles or so away from the existing telescopes at Jodrell Bank.124W The final choice will depend on site conditions, including freedom from electrical and other interferences. I cannot say when a decision will be made.