§ 20. Mr. Masonasked the Minister of Supply to what extent his Department is co-operating with the United States Government in furthering space research from the Woomera rocket range in Australia.
§ Mr. Aubrey JonesThe tracking of satellites at Woomera is done in collaboration with the United States, and the results of upper atmosphere research conducted at Woomera with British rockets are made available to the United States and other countries under the arrangements far the International Geophysical Year.
§ Mr. MasonDo I understand aright that the Americans are now contemplating launching a space satellite from the Woomera range? If that is so, are we to concentrate on co-operation—forgo a national effort of our own, and do it in conjunction with the United States?
§ Mr. JonesThe hon. Member is a little premature in his anticipation. There is a great American interest in the facilities which Woomera affords, but exactly what American intentions may be I do not know at the moment.
§ Mr. MasonWill the right hon. Gentleman inform the House whether his Department has yet made up its mind whether we are to do it alone and launch an earth space satellite programme or whether we are to work in close co-operation with the United States, especially from the Woomera range?
§ Mr. JonesMost of the things which we do are done in co-operation with the United States. If there is a British satellite programme, I hope that it will be co-ordinated with any American programme.