HC Deb 13 November 1984 vol 67 cc224-5W
38. Mr. Strang

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what consultation he has had with the Australian Government about the Royal Commission which is investigating British nuclear tests carried out in Australia in the 1950s and 1960s; and if he will make a statement on the evidence which has been given by Australian ex-service men regarding activities within the purview of his Department.

Mr. Butler

In accordance with the Prime Minister's assurances to Mr. Hawke, the Australian Prime Minister, and as indicated by my predecessor the hon. Member for Chertsey and Walton (Mr. Pattie) in answer to a question on 27 July, at column 838, Her Majesty's Government are co-operating fully with the Australian Government in dealing with the Royal Commission. I am not prepared to comment on the evidence which is reported to have been given by Australian ex-service men.