§ 1. Mr. Frank Allaunasked the Minister of Defence if he will stop research into the development of germ warfare at Porton, transfer this establishment to the Ministry of Health, and open the establishment for inspection by health workers from all countries.
§ Mr. AllaunIs the Minister aware that a germ bomb warhead has been or is being developed for the American Sergeant missile? Will he give an assurance that we entertain no such idea? If the work at Porton is purely defensive against germ warfare, why cannot he open its doors to health visitors from other countries?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftWe are bound by the Geneva Agreement as to the use of such weapons. We are, however, entitled to defend ourselves or to retaliate. As to visitors, bona fide research workers sometimes go there and, subject to security restrictions, they can go on doing so.
§ Mr. G. ThomasDoes not the Minister think that he has enough destructive power without stooping to preparing for germ warfare as well?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftHow to defend ourselves against germ warfare.