HC Deb 18 October 1949 vol 468 c476
36. Mr. Piratin

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the refusal of the United States Government to give His Majesty's Government information in the technical use of atomic energy, he will consider approaching the Soviet Government in order to obtain this information.

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Mayhew)

My right hon. Friend does not accept the statement in the first part of this Question. The answer to the Question is, "No, Sir."

Mr. Piratin

Is it not the fact that a few months ago the British and the Canadian Governments requested such information from the United States and were refused it? Is it not also the fact that in the Soviet Union atomic energy is reported as being now used for industrial purposes? As there is a need in our country for increased productivity, should we not seek this information?

Mr. Mayhew

So far, the Soviet Government have shown themselves reluctant to part with information of this kind.