§ Mr. DalyellTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment has been made of the effects of(a) the amounts of time spent by scientists writing grant proposals and (b) training the staff for short-term contracts, on the overall scientific effectiveness of core staff at Agricultural and Food Research Council institutes.
Mr. Jackson[holding answer 16 May 1990]: I have been asked to reply.
I understand that no such assessments have been made. The writing of grant proposals is part of the work of research scientists whether in Agricultural and Food Research Council or elsewhere. Permanent scientific staff at Agricultural and Food Research Council institutes have an on-the-job training role for new staff whether on permanent or period appointment.