HC Deb 16 November 1954 vol 533 cc216-7
48. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Prime Minister to what extent it is the intention of Her Majesty's Government, in co-operation with the United States Govern- ment, to assist other countries in the practical application of atomic research to medicine, farming and industry.

The Prime Minister

We and our American friends are already doing a great deal to assist other countries in this way. From the United Kingdom we have, in the last seven years, exported to 46 countries well over 16,000 consignments of the radio-active elements called "isotopes" by the learned. These isotopes represent the practical application of atomic research to medicine, farming and industry. The United Kingdom is the largest world exporter of isotopes and is now exporting at the rate of 7,000 consignments a year. In addition to the United States and the United Kingdom, Canada is also an important exporter of isotopes. Our Isotopes Advisory Service offers advice and assistance, and foreign students are accepted at the Isotopes Training School at Harwell.

Mr. Henderson

Would the Prime Minister not agree that, apart altogether from the isotopes to which he has referred, the United States Government have given a very fine lead in the direction of establishing this international atomic agency, and would it not have a great effect on the international situation if the Soviet Union could see its way to co-operate along these lines to the fullest possible extent?

The Prime Minister

I agree with all that. It is vitally important to switch the train of destiny on to the right lines.