§ 26. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what he estimates would be the area of destruction caused by a hydrogen bomb exploded over Prestwick Airport.
§ Mr. J. StuartThe destructive effects of hydrogen bombs vary according to their power and the height at which they are exploded. As the Home Secretary indicated on 5th July last, a bomb 1,000 times as powerful as those dropped on Japan might, if exploded in the air, cause total destruction within a radius of five miles.
§ Mr. HughesCould the right hon. Gentleman tell us whether Glasgow and the whole of the industrial belt in the west of Scotland would be affected in the event of an H-bomb dropping over the American base at Prestwick? Is he aware that the "Glasgow Herald" has recently pointed out that Aberdeen might be affected by its fall?
§ Mr. StuartI am sure all hon. Members will support the Government in trying to stop these ghastly events from occurring. I would point out to the hon. Member, who asked about Prestwick, that Glasgow is without the radius of lighter damage if a bomb should be dropped over Prestwick. I can only suggest to him that if he has foreknowledge or second sight he should take the precaution of evacuating himself.