HC Deb 08 February 1960 vol 617 cc19-20
31. Mr. Chetwynd

asked the Minister of Aviation what contribution is made by his Department towards the cost of space research.

Mr. Sandys

The Ministry of Aviation Is proceeding with the design of modifications to make it possible for the British rockets now under development for military purposes to be used for the launching of space satellites. A number of other related problems are also being studied. This work is being done partly by the Royal Aircraft Establishment at Farnborough and partly by industry.

Mr. Chetwynd

Is there not a very strong case now for the whole of the space research programme to be within the Minister's own Department and not scattered among a number of different agencies?

Mr. Sandys

I understand the hon. Member has a Question on the Order Paper on that subject addressed to the Prime Minister.

Mr. Wyatt

Will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that there is no danger of the project "Blue Streak" being cancelled, as it is thought by many people not far from Government circles that this is likely to happen? Is it not a fact that the possibility of our having a big space research programme depends on the Government going ahead with "Blue Streak" and not in cancelling it?

Mr. Sandys

I think those are rather dangerous thoughts.

Mr. Wyatt

What is the answer?

Mr. Sandys

I know of no intention to discontinue the development of "Blue Streak".