asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science when the continued need for the Social Science Research Council last was questioned on a systematic basis in accordance with the instruction in section 7 of "Non-Departmental Public Bodies: A Guide for Departments"; and what area for savings in expenditure and manpower were identified.

A review of the work of the Social Science Research Council is presently being carried out by Lord Rothschild. My right hon. Friend proposes to regard that review, the report of which will be published later this year, as fulfilling the instruction mentioned.