§ Mr. Tebbitasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the total sum expended from his Department's Vote upon science and technology; in what ways it is allocated; and how he ensures that such sums are spent wisely.
§ Mr. ShoreVery substantial parts of my Department's work are concerned with science and technology in a wide sense.
530WThis is especially true of water engineering, environmental pollution and my responsibilities for the construction industry.
Total spending on the Environmental Research Vote in 1976–77 was £20.4 million, and the estimated sum for 1977–78 is £19.9 million. Funds are allocated by committees of my most senior officials, which take full account of the ways in which proposed projects are related to policy needs. They and I are advised 531W on the overall strategy and balance of the research programme by external advisory councils, and each of my research establishments has an advisory committee.