§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, following the recommendations of the House of Lords Select Committee on Science and Technology, he will amend the method of funding of the Agricultural and Food Research Council so as to distinguish between the funding of food research in the public interest and work of direct benefit to industry; and if he will direct the Agricultural and Food Research Council to ensure that its Bristol laboratory remains open and intact.
§ Mr. RyderThe Government have made their position clear on the removal of public support for near market research and that is already reflected in the commissions which my Department places with the Agriculture and Food Research Council. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Science is responsible in this House for matters directly affecting the research councils.