§ 48. Mr. Callaghanasked the Lord Privy Seal if, in view of Mr. Kurchatov's recent address at Harwell, he will review present policy to see what further information on recent developments in atomic research British scientists may make available.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerThe policy governing release from security restrictions of information on atomic energy research is under constant review, and the area covered by such restrictions is being progressively reduced. Mr. Kurchatov's recent address at Harwell does not necessitate any special acceleration of this process.
§ Mr. CallaghanHas not the Lord Privy Seal been made aware that there are certain accomplishments in this matter 2006 which it would be desirable to make public, and which could be made public, so I am informed, without any breach of security? If he will not carry the matter any further, does he not realise that this will cause a certain amount of disappointment?
§ Mr. ButlerWork in the thermonuclear field, which was the primary object of Mr. Kurchatov's excellent address, is released to the universities and to other interested bodies progressively, and subject only to certain conditions of security. We do not propose to stop the progress of that release, and we have taken into account the hon. Gentleman's representations in this matter.