HC Deb 07 May 1956 vol 552 cc77-8W
71. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Minister of Supply why permission to explode a hydrogen bomb on Australian soil was not sought before the official announcement of plans for such an explosion was made.

Mr. Maudling

No such announcement has been made. We have in any case agreed with the Australian Government that no hydrogen weapon will be tested in Australia.

72. Mr. Mason

asked the Minister of Supply to what extent precautions are being taken to ensure that, following the forthcoming hydrogen-bomb experiment, human life will not be endangered by the radio-active fall-out.

Mr. Maudling

I can assure the hon. Member that should hydrogen bomb tests be undertaken by Her Majesty's Government, the fullest precautions would be taken to avoid danger to human life.