§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what recent action he has taken to co-ordinate and promote research on hearing and assistance to the deaf and hard of hearing; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what progress has now been made toward the setting up of an institute for hearing research under the terms of Section 24 of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir K. JosephThe Medical Research Council has advised me of the conclusions which it has reached on future policy for the development of research in deafness and specific action to be taken. The Council does not regard the establishment of an institute as a physical entity as the most effective means of developing research in hearing; but recommends instead the establishment of an overall mechanism for co-ordinating research at various centres. It has stated, in addition, its intention to set up working groups to foster clinical and epidemiological studies, fundamental studies relevant to the development of new types of instrumentation to aid hearing, and research related to education, rehabilitation and social adaptation.
I accept the council's conclusion and proposed action; and should add that my Department has been in close contact with the council throughout these developments and will be represented on the working groups.