§ 42. Mr. LuffTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what steps he is taking to progress initiatives that will improve public understanding of science following the national week of science and technology.
§ Mr. WaldegraveSET7 was a great success. Planning has begun for next year's national week of science, engineering and technology. At the same time the Office of Science and Technology is continuing to support a number of initiatives to encourage greater understanding and appreciation of science and engineering, especially in our schools but also among the general public.
§ 43. Mr. KnapmanTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what progress his Department has made in achieving the original objectives of the science White Paper.
§ Mr. WaldegraveWe have made an excellent progress. The first forward look of Government-funded science and technology was published last month; this provides a clear and up-to-date survey of the research and development scene, and sets out strategic objectives for the next five to 10 years. The new research council structure came into being on 1 April. The technology foresight programme is well under way; and the week of special events to promote public understanding was described byNew Scientist as "a staggering success".