§ 48. Brigadier Medlicottasked the Minister of Defence if steps are being taken against the possibility of atomic weapons being brought into British ports or within British territorial waters by foreign vessels; and if arrangements are being made to screen British ports against this danger.
§ 49. Mr. Shepherdasked the Minister of Defence if he is satisfied that adequate steps have been taken to safeguard against the possibility of atomic weapons being placed in the waters of our ports by foreign vessels; whether he is aware of the new American precautions; and if he intends to carry out a similar procedure here.
§ Mr. ShinwellHis Majesty's Government are fully aware of this danger. It will be appreciated, however, that our assessment of the risks and the exact nature of our plans for meeting them would be of the greatest interest to a potential enemy and cannot be disclosed. We are aware of the recent action taken in the matter by the U.S. authorities and are in touch with them on the general question of defence against atomic attack.