Atomic Energy Authority (Annual Report)

HC Deb 27 June 1956 vol 555 c486

49. Mr. Neave

asked the Lord Privy Seal when he expects the Atomic Energy Authority to publish its Annual Report for 1955–56.

Mr. R. A. Butler

It is expected to lay the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority's Annual Report for 1955–56 before Parliament towards the end of July.

Mr. Neave

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the need for the Authority to publish its Report at a more convenient time for debate in Parliament than just before the summer Recess? Will he encourage the Authority to choose a more suitable time to publish in order that the Report can be considered by this House?

Mr. Butler

The first year's Report of the Authority was published in November, 1955, which was found to be an inconvenient date. A great effort was made therefore to speed up the Report to July. I cannot undertake that it will be possible to speed up the next Report beyond July, but I will certainly make an effort to put these matters before my noble Friend, and will bear in mind the point made by my hon. Friend.