HC Deb 06 November 1968 vol 772 cc106-7W
82. Mr. Ian Lloyd

asked the Minister of Technology whether he will support the adoption by the European Space Conference of a co-ordinated European space programme, including work on application and scientific satellite launches.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

The United Kingdom supported the Resolution passed at the European Space Conference in Rome in July, 1967 calling for a coordinated European space policy, and I am hopeful that at its forthcoming meeting the Conference will reach agreement on a programme of space activities suitable to meet European requirements within the resources available.

83. Mr. Ian Lloyd

asked the Minister of Technology what measures have been taken by Her Majesty's Government to co-ordinate the instructions to its delegations in the councils of the European Organisation for Space Research, the European Launcher Development Organisation, the Conference on European Tele communications Satellites and other bodies concerned with European space developments, with a view to the achievement of an integrated and co-ordinated European space programme.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

It is the Government's view that responsibility for the various fields of space activity should rest with the Ministers concerned with the related terrestrial activities. There is regular consultation between the Departments concerned to ensure that the United Kingdom's overall policy towards European space activities is a coherent one.

85. Mr. Leadbitter

asked the Minister of Technology if he will make a statement on the future of the British contribution to the European Launcher Development Organisation.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

I assume that the Question refers to the financial contribution to the European Launcher Development Organisation. As my right hon. Friend told the House on 23rd April, the Government has decided not to undertake any additional financial commitments to the Organisation. We shall, however, meet our present obligations as agreed at the 1966 European Launcher Development Organisation Ministerial Conference.—[Vol. 763, c. 40–47.]

Mr. Ian Lloyd

asked the Minister of Technology what steps have been taken by Her Majesty's Government to ensure that essential development work carried out by the major European space organisations is not hindered by lack of decision in each of the bodies concerned.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

Her Majesty's Government made known to member countries of the major European space organisations its decisions on the main issues involving space development work, in April, 1968, and was the first country to do so.