§ 42. Captain Pilkingtonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what steps the Government are taking to discover the genetic effects of nuclear radiation in regard to future generations; and whether he will summarise what is so far known on this subject.
§ 44. Dr. D. Johnsonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, when he expects to publish the White Paper concerning the medical effects of nuclear radiation, including the genetic effects.
§ 56. Mr. Masonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what investigations are now being sponsored by the Medical Research Council regarding the possible long-term effects of nuclear radiation on human beings.
§ Mr. BevinsThe Medical Research Council is conducting a number of investigations on the possible genetic and other long-term effects of exposure to nuclear radiation. As the House will know, a committee specially appointed by the Council at the request of the Government is giving the highest priority to the preparation of a report which will include a review of existing knowledge on the subject. It is unlikely to be completed before the spring.
§ Captain PilkingtonSince some scientists apparently believe that this nuclear radiation may have a disastrous effect on future generations, would it not be a good idea to suggest the cessation of further experiments until a little more is known?
§ Mr. BevinsI do not think that that is a supplementary question which ought to be addressed to me.
§ Dr. JohnsonWill my hon. Friend include the genetic effects of X-rays within the scope of this?
§ Mr. BevinsThat is being included in the investigations.