§ 54. Mr. Blackburnasked the Minister of Defence what steps he is taking to obtain the fullest information as to the atomic tests conducted by the United States since 1946, and for the future.
§ Mr. ShinwellI would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave him on 14th February on this subject.
§ Mr. BlackburnIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that during the war, at great expense to our own atomic effort, we gave the United States all possible help on the basis of equal partnership? Is it not now utterly wrong and utterly ungenerous on the part of the United States, as most Americans themselves think, that we now have only limited co-operation and are not allowed to have observers at their atomic tests?
§ Mr. ShinwellI have given the answer to the Question. I shall say nothing which will exacerbate relations between ourselves and the United States.
§ Viscount HinchingbrookeWere any British observers present at the recent tests in Nevada, and has Lord Portal's committee received any official reports about those tests?
§ Mr. ShinwellThat is precisely the Question to which I replied on 14th February.
§ Mr. BlackburnIn view of the very grave consequences which are raised in this Question, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter at the earliest possible opportunity on the Adjournment.