§ 46. Dr. Strossasked the Prime Minister when the White Paper on the possible harmful effects of nuclear explosions will be issued; and whether he will instruct our delegate to propose in the United Nations that a commission should be established to study and assess the potential dangers in atomic and thermonuclear bomb tests.
§ The Prime MinisterI am informed that the Medical Research Council is giving the highest priority to the preparation of a report on the medical aspects of nuclear radiation, but it cannot yet say when it is likely to be ready.
With regard to the second half of the Question, the United States representative to the United Nations made a proposal on 21st June that the United Nations should assemble and collate scientific information from all over the world on the effects of radiation on human health and safety. Her Majesty's Government have learned with interest of this proposal. It will be given careful study and Her Majesty's Government will be ready to take their full part in discussing it at the first convenient opportunity.
§ Dr. StrossWhilst thanking the Prime Minister very heartily for the information given in his answer, may I ask him whether the report is correct that the Soviet Union has stated that it is prepared to stop further tests at the moment?
§ The Prime MinisterI have not heard that.