§ Mr. Dellasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what requirements he imposes regarding the completion of non-departmental research projects which he finances; whether he is satisfied that these requirements are adhered to; whether there is non-productive expenditure; and how much.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerExtra-mural research projects commissioned by my Department are covered by negotiated contracts or agreements. Payment is conditional on the work progressing satisfactorily within the agreed time scale. Break clauses are included when appropriate. Research projects, by their nature, are not always entirely successful but I am satisfied that non-productive expenditure is kept to as low a level as possible and that contract conditions are met.