asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is satisfied with the present practice of short-term research grants for medical researchers; and if he will make a statement.

I assume that the hon. Lady's question relates to the field of biomedical research and not to Health Services research in the National Health Service. In the biomedical field, the system of short-term research appointments which are financed by grants has long been used. I am however aware that aspects of this system have recently given rise to some concern. I shall be receiving a deputation from the Association of Researchers in Medical Science on the subject on 5 December.