§ 24. Mr. A. Hendersonasked the Minister of Supply whether he will make a statement on the recent explosion of the British atomic device on the Monte Bello Islands; and what further tests are to take place.
§ Mr. MaudlingAn atomic device was successfully exploded on 16th May in the Monte Bello Islands off the West Coast of Australia. It is planned to test a further device shortly. The House will no doubt wish to join me in thanking the Australian Government for all they have done to help in the staging of this test series and in congratulating the Operation Commander, Commodore Martell, R.N., and his team of Servicemen and scientists on the success of the first part of the Operation.
§ Mr. HendersonDoes the Minister's reply include a possible hydrogen test in the future? Is it not a fact that British scientists have reported that the six American and Russian hydrogen tests which have taken place during the last three years have produced an element of radioactive fall-out known as strontium, which is potentially most dangerous to human welfare? Is it not time these tests were altered or omitted?
§ Mr. MaudlingNone of the devices concerned in these tests has more than a few tens of kilotons of yield.
§ Mr. Emrys HughesHow much money has been spent on these tests? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Chancellor of the Exchequer is repeatedly stressing the fact that we need less Government expenditure and are in an economic crisis? How does the explosion of devices in the Monte Bello Islands assist the Chancellor of the Exchequer in his present dilemma?
§ Mr. MaudlingIf the hon. Member will put down a Question I will certainly endeavour to give him the figures, but these 696 tests are all part of our general defence effort, which, I think, the House as a whole will agree is producing some good results.