HC Deb 17 December 1957 vol 580 c202
52. Mr. Mason

asked the Prime Minister when the United States of America and the United Kingdom Joint Declassification Committee was formed: what are its present functions; and if he will give the names of the sitting members.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have been asked to reply.

A Joint De-classification Guide has been in use by the United Kingdom. Canada and the United States since April, 1946. Revision of the guide is made by agreement between the countries concerned and is based on the recommendations of periodic conferences attended by their representatives. Membership of any particular conference depends on the sections of the Declassification Guide under discussion.

Mr. Mason

Could the right hon. Gentleman explain to the House to what extent this Committee has been responsible for suppressing the news of the partial control of the H-bomb experiments at Harwell, and can he say when a full statement will be made on this matter?

Mr. Butler

It is hoped to publish the full scientific details early in the New Year, if that will be of any help to the hon. Gentleman.