HC Deb 27 November 1968 vol 774 c494
26. Mr. Alex Eadie

asked the Minister of Technology if he will make a statement on the progress made in prospecting for uranium in Scotland.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

As part of the uranium reconnaissance programme carried out in the north of Scotland numerous samples of water and stream sediments have been collected. Much analytical work has still to be done but at least four areas appear to merit more detailed assessment.

Mr. Eadie

Is my hon. Friend aware that this has created a great deal of interest in the Press in Scotland? Can he tell the House whether any calculations have been made of the economic and financial advantages this would mean to the economy?

Mr. Mallalieu

I am sure that it is arousing interest in in Scotland, as elsewhere. On the economic question, this is trying to prepare an insurance, a fall-back position, in case there is any difficulty in getting supplies from elsewhere.

Mrs. Ewing

Can the hon. Gentleman tell us whether a comprehensive mineral survey is being carried out in Scotland and, if not, whether he has any plans to do it, because it is known that there are some very fine mineral deposits of many kinds in Scotland?

Mr. Mallalieu

I think that is a different question.