Science Minister For N.Z. Proposed

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29728, 23 January 1962, Page 14

Science Minister For N.Z. Proposed

(hew Zealand Press Association)

AUCKLAND, Jan. 22. New Zealand needed a senior Minister with scientific and industrial research as his sole port-

folio, officers of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research at Auckland submitted today to the Royal Commission on State Services. The joint submissions were by Messrs J. D. Atkinson, director of the Fruit Research Division, J. B. Brooke, director of the Auckland Industrial Development Laboratory, and E. E. Chamberlain, director of the Plant Diseases Division.

"If science is regarded as an investment for the future, as it must be, it is difficult to put figures on its value.” said Mr Atkinson.

“We have thought too small in science for too long There is general agreement among scientists that the first requirement is more money Th«n we start to get busy.” Mr Atkinson said a body of competent research men in this country, with the

training and ability to apply new knowledge to local problems, was needed. “Originality, independence of ideas and a fresh outlook are among the most valuable attributes of a good scientist,” he submitted. “It is probably because of these characteristics that our scientists have been so successful both in New Zealand and overseas. “Our scientists have already contributed substantially to world knowledge,” said Mr Atkinson. “We would be failing in our duty as a nation if we do not make adequate provision to continue this process National pride alone should prevent our waiting for other countries to solve our problems.” Messrs R. W. Moir and A C. Kibblewhite, representing Auckland branch of the New Zeeland Association of Scientists, told the commission a larger proportion of the national vote should be spent on increasing scientific effort in New Zealand

“We feel that, on the basis of the evidence and opinion already presented, the commission will conclude that a radical reorganisation of science in New Zealand is required." Mr Moir said. Separate Inquiry Urged

He urged that a separate committee of inquiry was desirable. If the commission should decide that no separate inquiry was required, said Mr Moir, the branch suggested that much could be done to improve the administration of science in New Zealand if favourable consideration were given particularly to the following points: That sabbatical leave, where earned, be introduced and the attitude toward overseas travel liberated That greater financial freedom be given to permanent heads and through them to directors of laboratories, within the allocation approved by Parliament That a minimum period of five years be adopted tor budgeting purposes That to attract and retain qualified staff (professional and technical) the conditions of employmen*, be brought more closely into line with those overseas.