§ 3. Mr. Edelmanasked the Secretary for Technical Co-operation what studies he is making of desalination techniques; and what projects he has for their application.
Mr. CarrIn view of the extensive research being undertaken under other auspices, my Department is not at present sponsoring any studies of desalination. I have no requests for technical assistance in this field under consideration.
§ Mr. EdelmanIs the Minister aware of the United States Government's interest in desalination—if I may use that term instead of "desalinisation"—in conjunction with the development of nuclear energy and, in those circumstances, will he consult the United States Government in order to study further a technique which may well revolutionise the means of desert reclamation.
Miss LeeIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that his reply is extremely disappointing and that the nation which can solve this problem will do more for the hungry millions than the nation which puts, a man on the moon? Will he therefore bring us into line with countries working on this project and try to get international co-operation on this vital issue?
Mr. CarrAt least we are not trying to put a man on the moon. I will bear in mind what the hon. Lady says. It is a most important problem.