§ 8. Mr. Lubbockasked the Minister of Aviation the estimated annual radiation dose attributable to cosmic radiation which would be received by the crew of an aircraft such as the BAC/Sud Mach 2.2 airliner.
§ Mr. J. AmeryThe annual radiation dose would vary according to the routes flown. Our experience of high-level flying is limited, but I am advised that the radiation to which the crew of such an aircraft would normally be subjected is likely to be less than the maximum allowed for radiation workers.
§ Mr. LubbockHas the Minister studied the findings of the United Nations Committee on the hazards of atomic radiation for high-flying aircraft, in which it is stated that during a period of intense solar activity the crew might be subjected to as much as 8,000 millirems during a flight of a few hours' duration?
§ Mr. AmeryYes, Sir, we have studied all the relevant information. As I have said, our experience is limited, but we think that the exposure is less than that which is regarded as permissible for people who work on radiation in the ordinary course of events.
§ Mr. LubbockDoes not the Minister consider that there should be more than thinking on this matter and that there should be certainty before going ahead with the spending of £50 million on this supersonic airliner project?
§ Mr. AmeryIt is not just a question of thinking. We have a good deal of information. There are, of course, abnormal circumstances like solar flares which can affect the situation, but in our belief the information which we have confirms the statement which I have just made.