§ Mr. Farrasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the action taken to protect the health of the British Pitcairn islanders in view of the forthcoming French nuclear test in the area.
§ Mr. Anthony RoyleAs in previous years we have informed the French Government of the Royal Air Force team on Pitcairn sent to conduct health monitoring throughout the period of the French nuclear test programme. The French Government are aware of our concern for the wellbeing of the islanders. The Governor of Pitcairn has informed the inhabitants that Her Majesty's Government have taken all necessary precautions to protect their safety and health and that no danger is expected.
As one of the parties to the Partial Test Ban Treaty of 1963 which prohibits nuclear tests in the atmosphere, Her Majesty's Government maintain the hope that those countries which have not done so will eventually decide to accede to the Treaty.