HC Deb 23 March 1970 vol 798 cc964-5
30. Mr. Marten

asked the Minister of Technology if he has yet received the report of the Working Group for a European Telecommunications Satellite; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Carmichael

A copy of the final draft was received recently. The report is now being evaluated by the European bodies concerned, and until this has been done, we shall not be in a position to make a statement.

Mr. Marten

While disagreeing with part of the remarks of my hon. Friend the Member for Eastleigh (Mr. David Price) earlier, may I ask whether the Government agree with the proposal for a 500 kilogram communications satellite to be launched by a Europa III launcher?

Mr. Carmichael

The United Kingdom has declared its willingness in principle to participate in the programme, but until the final report has been produced and evaluated, and necessary information has come from certain bodies, like the European Conference on Posts and Communications and the European Broadcasting Union, no decision can be taken, except in principle.

Mr. David Price

In making its evaluation, will the Department study the admirable report of the hon. Member for Eastleigh presented to the Council of Europe about 10 years ago and supported unanimously by that body? Does the Minister agree that that report remains absolutely right, and that if Governments had followed it we should be in a better position in space now?

Mr. Carmichael

I am pleased that the hon. Gentleman has given me a reference to that report. I am sure that it will be looked at when the full report is studied.