HC Deb 29 June 1943 vol 390 cc1465-6
48. Mr. Purbrick

asked the Lord President of the Council whether he will investigate the application in America whereby a neutraliser man-made electrical disturbance more powerful than the greatest storms of thunder and lightning can be reduced to a whisper, and in one test a 25,000-volt spark was projected directly to a wireless receiving set; and will he consider the applicability of this method for the artificial promotion of seismic disturbances, volcanic eruptions, etc.

Mr. A. S. L. Young (Lord of the Treasury)

I have been asked to reply. Further information about this device is being sought from the appropriate scientific authorities in the United States of America. When this is received, the potential applications of the device will be fully examined. My right hon. Friend is, however, advised that any device which is designed for the reception of radio waves in the presence of electrical noise is unlikely to be of use as a generator of seismic or volcanic disturbances.

Mr. Purbrick

Is my hon. Friend aware that there are very distinguished scientists who have frequently referred to the relation between the earth's magnetism and earthquakes and their connection with electricity, and will he bear this in mind and study these things when the time comes?

Mr. Young

I will see that my right hon. Friend is advised of the Question.

Mr. Hopkinson

Would the hon. Member kindly explain the exact meaning of the words "neutraliser man-made electrical disturbance"?

Mr. Young

I am afraid that is beyond me.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

Will hon. Members be informed before either earthquakes or volcanic eruptions are induced?