HC Deb 04 July 1957 vol 572 c1300
49. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Prime Minister what progress British scientists have made towards the production of clean hydrogen bombs; and if he will make a detailed statement on the subject.

The Prime Minister

Our examination of this subject shows that progress is being made, but it would not be in the public interest to disclose details.

Mr. Hughes

Does not the Prime Minister agree that this is a very urgent matter which affects the peace, health and happiness of mankind, and is not the public entitled to some information about it? Will the right hon. Gentleman revise that non-committal statement and give a better answer?

The Prime Minister

I must point out that any progress towards the production of "clean" bombs would not have taken place at all if I had yielded to what the hon. and learned Gentleman and his friends wanted, which was not to test them.

Mr. Beswick

Does not the Prime Minister also agree that the happiness of the human race would not be at all advanced if it were blown off the earth by a "clean" hydrogen bomb? Is not the use of the adjective in this connection itself a pollution of the English language?

The Prime Minister

The hon. and learned Member for Aberdeen, North (Mr. Hector Hughes) and the hon. Member for Uxbridge (Mr. Beswick) are contiguous in their positions. They must try to adapt their policies.