§ 49. Mr. Callaghanasked the Lord Privy Seal what recent approaches have been made to the United States Government with a view to removing obstacles in the way of full exchange of information on atomic research and development.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerThe exchange of information on atomic energy matters between the United States and the United Kingdom is governed by the two Agreements which were signed in June, 1955, and published as Cmds. 9507 and 9508. Co-operation under these Agreements is proceeding smoothly, and no such approaches have been necessary.
§ Mr. CallaghanSurely the Lord Privy Seal does not intend to stand behind a technicality. Is he not aware that there is not full exchange of information, and that this situation has persisted since 1942–43? In view of the fact that we have made substantial advances in this field and have in some ways now overtaken the Americans, will he not offer to give them a helping hand? Even on that basis they might be prepared to consider it.
§ Mr. ButlerYes, Sir. I am certainly willing to give a helping hand, but that does not alter the considered terms of the Answer which I gave.
§ Mr. HobsonWithout departing from what my hon. Friend said, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman to pay particular attention to the development of nuclear power through heavy water, in view of the fact that many scientists feel that it is in the light of that development that the industrial processes will come very quickly? Does he not think that we have been rather slack in this connection, particularly in the collapse of the scheme in New Zealand?
§ Mr. ButlerNo, Sir. I do not think it can be said that the Authority has been slack. Of course, I pay attention to all supplementary questions put by hon. Members. They deserve the study which hon. Members desire that they should have. I cannot go further than that.