§ Mr. Brothertonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the activities of the working party to estimate and advise on diffused junction silicon semi-conductor detectors; who are its members; what fees they are paid; what is its overall cost to public funds; and what plans he has for its future.
§ Dr. VaughanFollowing reports from National Health Service physicists of a specific requirement for a small number of radiation monitors which were not available commercially, the Department initiated a development programme at AERE Harwell. The working party to evaluate and advise on diffused junction silicon semi-conductor detectors was set up to provide direct contact between the National Health Service and Harwell so that the eventual product would meet precisely the needs of the National Health Service.
The members are National Health Service scientists, nominated by four of the leading radiotherapy hospitals, and they are not paid fees. The total cost to central funds has been approximately £40.
The development programme is virtually complete and one further meeting of the working party is expected.