HC Deb 29 October 1945 vol 415 cc38-9
52. Mr. W. S. Morrison

asked the Prime Minister what stops are being taken to develop research on the use of atomic energy in this country.

The Prime Minister

In accordance with a recommendation which has been received from the Advisory Committee on Atomic Energy of which the right hon. Gentleman the Member for the Scottish Universities (Sir J. Anderson) is the Chairman, the Government have decided to set up a research and experimental establishment covering all aspects of the use of atomic energy. Accommodation is being provided for the establishment at Harwell airfield near Didcot. I am advised that the danger to surrounding areas from the experimental station is negligible. It has further been decided that in view of the importance of this work to the Service Departments, responsibility for research on this subject which has hitherto rested with the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research should be transferred to the Ministry of Supply. The Tube Alloys Directorate (which is the name by which the technical organisation dealing with these matters has hitherto been known) will accordingly become a part of that Ministry. The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research will, however, be represented both on the Advisory Committee and on some of its technical sub-committees.

Mr. Morrison

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what financial assistance it is proposed to give to this research?

The Prime Minister

The cost will have to fall upon the Government.

Mr. Blackburn

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that research in relation to atomic energy is inseparable from production and that really effective research would involve production on a scale involving an expenditure of at least £30,000,000 or £40,000,000?

The Prime Minister

I am very fully advised on these matters by the Advisory Committee.

Mr. Maxton

Does this change of control to a Department more closely associated with the Services indicate that the Government are more concerned about the weapon value of atomic energy than about its production value?

The Prime Minister

No, not at all. It can hardly have escaped the hon. Gentleman's notice that the Ministry of Supply is also engaged on civilian production. It is a mistake to suggest that it is entirely concerned with weapons.

Mr. Boothby

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider making the report of the Advisory Committee available to Members of this House?

The Prime Minister

No, Sir. I could not accept that.

Sir Frank Sanderson

Arising from the original reply, is it proposed that the Ministry of Supply shall remain a permanent Department?

The Prime Minister

Yes, Sir.