§ 46. Mr. E. Fletcherasked the Lord Privy Seal what conversations have taken place with the United States authorities regarding the discussions between the Atomic Energy Authority and the representatives of the German Federal Minister for Atomic Energy.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerThere have been no conversations with the United States authorities on this subject.
§ Mr. FletcherDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think it rather important that we should keep in step with the United States Government, with whom we are in such close and cordial relations about atomic research generally, before we have these discussions with the Germans?
§ Mr. ButlerThe point is that negotiations with the German authorities are at a very early stage and, therefore, there is no reason for consultation with the United States authorities now. Whether we shall have need for consultation with them or not will appear as we see the situation developing in talks with the Germans.