HC Deb 19 March 1959 vol 602 c629
46. Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Prime Minister the increase in radioactivity in Great Britain during 1958, compared with 1954 and 1956, as a result of hydrogen bomb tests.

Mr. Maudling

I have been asked to reply.

The results of monthly measurements of Strontium 90 in rain falling in the United Kingdom have been published for the months up to August, 1958, and a copy of the report has been placed in the Library of the House. Final results for the whole year are not yet complete.

Mr. Allaun

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that according to a member of the Atomic Energy Authority, there was a 200 per cent. increase last year? Secondly, in view of that increase and the eight months' stalemate at Geneva, would not the commonsense first step be to stop immediately all the large and dirty tests, which can be detected already, without setting up new controls or inspection points, over which disagreement has arisen?

Mr. Maudling

Common sense will advise us to wait until we get the full information.