§ 1. Mr. Dribergasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware of the concern felt in Fiji and other Pacific territories about the effect of nuclear testing on the fish which form part of the islanders'staple diet; and if he will make representations on this matter to the French Government and other Powers contemplating further tests in this area.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Nigel Fisher)I have no evidence of any widespread concern among the populations of Fiji and other Pacific territories about the effect of nuclear testing on fish.
I am advised by my right hon. Friend the Lord Privy Seal that discussions will be held with the French Government at an appropriate time.
§ Mr. DribergWhile I am grateful for the assurance in the latter part of the Answer, may I ask the hon. Gentleman, since he expresses doubt about widespread concern, whether he has seen the 1018 very strong statement made a few weeks ago, by the Bishop in Polynesia, who travels constantly about his vast diocese by cargo-boat or catamaran, and who knows the islands at least as well as the hon. Gentleman does?
§ Mr. FisherI did see the Bishop in Polynesia a few days ago and in a very long conversation between us of over an hour on a wide range of subjects he never mentioned this subject at all.