§ 9. Mr. Liptonasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what steps he is taking to co-ordinate the efforts of other Government Departments to ensure that the public are adequately informed of the best methods of self-protection against radioactive contamination.
Dr. HillThe Medical Research Council made, in June, 1956, a full investigation into the hazards to health arising from radioactivity, including that from natural sources. It made a number of recommendations which have been published. The Stationary Office has published two non-technical pamphlets which include guidance on protection against radioactive fall-out.
§ Mr. LiptonWill the right hon. Gentleman do more than has been done so far to let the public know about these pamphlets? Is he aware that the constant increase in the number of H-bombs, either lying about or flying about, must inevitably increase the risk of accidents? Is it not, therefore, all the more essential either to bring these pamphlets up to date—if they require to be brought up to date—or ensure their wider circulation?
Dr. HillAs the hon. Member says, this is a matter for continuing scrutiny, and I will consider the point that he has made. At the same time, it is only fair to get this matter into perspective. When the position was last examined, as a proportion of natural radiation, man-made radiation was 25 per cent, and that from tests rather less than 1 per cent.