§ 41. Mr. HawkinsTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what proposals he has to encourage more children to develop an active interest in science; and if he will make a statement. [14221]
§ Mr. David HuntDuring the national week of science, engineering and technology, I announced a new competition to find the best primary and secondary schools in the United Kingdom. Classes have been invited to submit by 31 July video films of up to five minutes duration, or photo-essays, saying why theirs is the best science school in the country. Each of the winning primary and secondary schools will receive £1,000 for new scientific and technological equipment. The winners and two runners-up in each category will receive a day trip to the museum or hands-on centre of their choice, sponsored by the Office of Science and Technology. I shall announce the results during the week of the British Association's science festival in September.