To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will give the details of each external consultancy study undertaken, including its remit, into any aspects of the operation of the National Engineering Laboratory in each of the last five years.

[holding answer 28 February 1991]: Since this is an operational matter it would be best dealt with by direct contact with the agency. I have therefore asked the chief executive to write to the hon. Gentleman with the information requested.