HC Deb 27 July 1965 vol 717 c219
21. Mr. Albert Roberts

asked the Minister of Technology if he will make a statement on the space programme prepared by his department.

Mr. Marsh

My right hon. Friend has no direct responsibility for space research but following an invitation from the Secretary of State for Education and Science, he has directed the Atomic Energy Authority to undertake research on the design of the "payload" for the large astronomical satellite project of the European Space Research Organisation. At present, the Authority is carrying out a preliminary design study, which is expected to take about six months.

Mr. Roberts

Has there been co-operation between my right hon Friend's Department and the Postmaster-General about satellite communications?

Mr. Marsh

There is very considerable co-operation and constant discussion between the two Departments.

Mr. Wainwright

Could my hon. Friend say when the satellite will be launched in Australia?

Mr. Marsh

It is very difficult to give any precise date, but probably some time in 1967.