HC Deb 20 March 1957 vol 567 cc356-7
2. Mr. E. Fletcher

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he has now received the technical information requested from the United States of America regarding the submarine "Nautilus".

The Civil Lord of the Admiralty (Mr. T. G. D. Galbraith)

Exchanges of information on nuclear propulsion for submarines have not yet begun. Discussions as to the procedure for such exchanges will take place shortly.

Mr. Fletcher

In view of the great strategic importance of nuclear-driven submarines for both offensive and defensive purposes, will the Minister say whether he is satisfied that adequate arrangements are being made with the United States for the exchange of technical information on this important subject?

Mr. Galbraith

As I said in my Answer, discussions on the procedure for such exchanges are shortly to take place—next month, in fact.

Mr. Bottomley

Can the Civil Lord say what has caused the delay? Why have not talks taken place earlier?

Mr. Galbraith

As the right hon. Gentleman knows, originally exchange of information on nuclear plant for submarines was not allowed to take place. It was only last year that agreement was reached that information on this subject should be exchanged, and now the precise procedure is to be considered.

6. Mr. E. Fletcher

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what progress has been made with the project for building a British atomic powered submarine.

Mr. T. G. D. Galbraith

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Haltemprice (Major Wall) on 30th January, and to the speech made on 5th March by my hon. Friend on the Navy Estimates, Vote A.

Mr. Fletcher

Will the Minister say whether responsibility for this very important development rests with the Admiralty or with the Atomic Energy Authority? Can he assure us that, wherever responsibility rests, real priority is being given to this matter?

Mr. Galbraith

The responsibility for this submarine rests with the Admiralty.