§ 3. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Lord Privy Seal if, in view of the danger to health to United Kingdom citizens from fall-out, he will make representations to the Government of the United States of America about their proposals to carry out further nuclear tests in the atmosphere.
§ Mr. HughesIn view of the outcry of indignation expressed by the Government at the time of the Russian tests about the possibility of Russian fall-out, may I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman does not agree that any fall-out from American tests would also be likely to pollute the atmosphere and bring the danger of strontium 90 in the bones? Why does not the right hon. Gentleman object to this possibility if it comes from America?
§ Mr. HeathHer Majesty's Government deplore the resumption of tests. As the hon. Member knows, both the President of the United States and the Prime Minister have stated very clearly the circumstances in which they could be resumed.
§ Mr. GowerIs it not a fact that in recent months both the United States and Her Majesty's Government have behaved with a great deal of restraint and forbearance in this matter?
§ Mr. HeathThey have so behaved for nearly three years while negotiations have been carried out in Geneva.
§ Mr. HealeyIn view of the fact that the Soviet Government have repeated the proposal made by the British and American Governments on 3rd September for a ban on tests in the atmosphere, subject only to control by national systems of detection, may I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman can assure the House that Her Majesty's Government would be prepared to accept this element in the Soviet Government's proposals, subject to general agreement on other issues?
§ Mr. HeathWe are studying the Soviet proposals which were put forward yesterday. I do not think that the House would expect me to comment on them this afternoon.