§ 26. Mr. Leaveyasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that an abnormal, brightly illuminated airborne object was seen near Wardle in Lancashire at about 10 p.m. on Friday, 15th February, 1957; and what reports he has received from the radar warning system about this.
Mr. C. I. Orr-EwingYes, Sir. This object, which was described in the Press as a flying saucer, did not emanate from outer space, but from a laundry in Rochdale. It consisted of two small hydrogen-filled balloons illuminated by a flash-light bulb, and devised by a mechanic employed at the laundry. I understand he planned to construct from these experiments a small radio-controlled airship. There would be no reason for the radar system to report the appearance of a small, slow-moving object of this type.
§ Mr. LeaveyWhile noting my hon. Friend's explanation, may I ask him whether he is aware that it is most unlikely that that explanation will be accepted by those who saw this object? Is he aware that, in spite of the lighthearted tone of his reply, there is some general disquiet about these objects? Will he, therefore, take an early opportunity, preferably now, to make a general declaration that his Ministry is not at the moment involved, and has not been involved in the immediate past, in releasing objects which are normally described as flying saucers?
§ Mr. ShinwellIs it possible to produce a few abnormal, brightly illuminated objects on the Government Front Bench?
§ Mr. de FreitasIs there no truth at all in reports that radio amateurs have, at this very hour, picked up words spoken in English with a very strong Martian accent?