§ Mrs. EllmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has held with the Particle Physics and Astronomy Research Council concerning the future of Jodrell Bank. [131638]
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§ Ms HewittMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry has had no specific discussions with the Particle Physics and Astronomy Research Council (PPARC) about the future of Jodrell Bank. The PPARC is reviewing the future of all its telescopes, including Jodrell Bank, in the context of possible UK membership of the European Southern Observatory. No decisions have been made, and no major changes to the funding of existing telescopes are expected for at least five years. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry will discuss the future of Jodrell Bank, and other telescopes, at the appropriate time.
§ Mrs. EllmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment he has made of the contribution of Jodrell Bank to the science base in the North West. [131639]
§ Ms HewittAs Jodrell Bank is recognised as a major science facility in the North West it will be examined as part of the activities of the Government-commissioned reviews being carried out by the North West Science and Development Group and the North West Science Review Team, which are looking at economic development and the science base in the region. These reviews are due to report by the 29 December and 30 September respectively.