HC Deb 23 March 1955 vol 538 c2060
34. Mr. Mason

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air what department in his Ministry is responsible for ascertaining the percentage dosage of radioactivity in the atmosphere.

The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Mr. George Ward)

None, Sir.

Mr. Mason

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that following thermonuclear tests in other countries, radioactive clouds have been known to pass over these islands, that our airmen fly aircraft within the immediate vicinity and even through these clouds, perhaps without radiation filters? May I receive an assurance that the hon. Gentleman is keeping a close watch on this matter?

Mr. Ward

Of course, large numbers of aircraft are flying over this country at their operational ceiling all the time. If the hon. Gentleman listened to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health yesterday, he will have been assured that there is no danger whatever.