HC Deb 27 July 1977 vol 936 cc304-5W
Mr. Beith

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what discussions she has had with the Medical Research Council about the proposal to close the demyelinating diseases research unit at Newcastle University; and whether she is satisfied that this unit is continuing to contribute significantly to research in this field.

Mrs. Shirley Williams

The assessment of the unit's contribution is a matter of scientific judgment. The Medical Research Council which supports the unit has exercised its judgment and has informed me that it has reluctantly decided to close the unit because, despite great efforts, it has not been able to find a director of the required calibre.