HC Deb 18 December 1946 vol 431 cc1938-9
16. Mr. Blackburn

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the recent resolution of the General Assembly urging the Atomic Energy Commission to fulfil expeditiously its terms of reference, it is the intention that the British delegate to the Commission shall indicate the willingness of Great Britain to discuss weapons of mass destruction, other than the atomic bomb, and including bacteriological warfare and to provide, on a reciprocal basis with other nations, information necessary for the study by the Commission of the problems of control of such weapons.

Mr. McNeil

The resolution on, the regulation and reduction of armaments adopted by the General Assembly specifically urges the Security Council to expedite consideration of draft conventions which are to include the prohibition of atomic and all other major weapons adaptable now or in the future to mass destruction. To secure this end His Majesty's Government, now as previously, will give full and vigorous support.

Mr. Blackburn

Since the Attorney-General has taken the initiative in referring to weapons of mass destruction other than the atomic bomb, does my right hon. Friend think that it would be appropriate for the British Government to initiate discussions on such weapons?

Mr. McNeil

Perhaps my hon. Friend will give me further time to consider that question.