HC Deb 13 December 1961 vol 651 cc422-3
6. Mrs. Butler

asked the Minister of Defence what new arrangements are being made to use Woomera rocket range for testing atomic devices.

Mr. Amery

I have been asked to reply.

None, Sir.

Mrs. Butler

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there has been some public concern, both here and in Australia, at the visit paid some weeks ago by General Staff Colonel Hancock from the War Office and Major Stoner of the Joint Services Liaison Staff to the Woomera rocket range, to Maralinga and also to the Weapons Research Establishment at Salisbury, near Adelaide? In order to allay the fears that have been expressed in the Press about these visits, can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that there is no intention of preparing for fresh atomic tests to take place at the Woomera rocket range?

Mr. Amery

I think that the answer I gave just now should be quite sufficient assurance It could hardly have been more categorical than "None, Sir".