HC Deb 25 January 1951 vol 483 cc300-1
48. Mr. Gerald Williams

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will give some information as to the possible effects of atomic warfare on livestock and crops.

The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Thomas Williams)

Only limited information is available about the effects of atomic explosions on crops and livestock. Clearly, under certain conditions both might be injuriously affected but the agricultural hazards of atomic warfare should not be exaggerated. The problems involved are being given close attention by my Department and the other Departments concerned.

Mr. G. Williams

Is the Minister issuing any instructions or pamplets or is information being included in lectures given at the appropriate time, because livestock may well be saved if they are put under cover where it is available?

Mr. T. Williams

There are certain publications available which are issued by the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission, especially Nos. 5, 6 and 8. Certain other material, largely derived from America, has just been made available to all those who are studying the problem.