HC Deb 10 May 1962 vol 659 cc635-6
Q6. Mrs. Castle

asked the Prime Minister whether he will represent to President Kennedy the concern felt at the possible violation of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1948, by America's proposed high altitude tests.

The Prime Minister

I am informed that the provisions of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1948, have no bearing on this matter.

Mrs. Castle

Is it not the fact that the avowed purpose of the high-altitude tests is to produce a temporary blackout in radio and radar communications in the Pacific area? Is it not our duty under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, to which both we and the United States are signatories, to do everything in our power to help to maintain this radio communication? Can the right hon. Gentleman tell us what would happen if any ship or aircraft should find itself in distress during the period of this temporary blacking-out of communications?

The Prime Minister

That is another question. The Question I am asked refers to the relevance of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1948, but that Convention deals solely with the construction and equipment of ships engaged on international voyages.

Mr. M. Foot

Can the Prime Minister confirm the statement attributed to the United States President in one newspaper this morning that he is holding up some of these high-altitude tests while further investigations are made? Will not the Prime Minister at least welcome this decision, if it is the decision, of the President of the United States, and will he not ask that in the course of those investigations, British scientists, including Sir Bernard Lovell, should be able to examine the American proposals?

The Prime Minister

I have not seen that statement, but I have noted the hon. Member's suggestion, and if he would like to ask a further Question next week I shall do my best to answer it.