§ 72. Mr. Hastingsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, if he will initiate an inquiry as to the genetic effects of radioactivity on human beings by means of an investigation of the biological history of those who were engaged in X-ray work some 40 or more years ago.
§ Mr. BevinsMy noble Friend thinks it wise to await the report which the Government have invited the Medical Research Council to prepare on the medical aspects of nuclear radiation. He has, however, drawn the Council's attention to the hon. Member's suggestion.
§ 73. Dr. Strossasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, whether the Government in inviting the Medical Research Council to prepare a report on the medical and genetic aspects of nuclear radiation will request them to evaluate the sources of the present radioactive contamination of London's atmosphere, as between X-ray apparatus, isotopes used in industry and medicine, and nuclear test explosions.
§ Mr. BevinsThe Medical Research Council will no doubt examine all aspects of the question on which the Government have invited them to report. Meanwhile, I am advised that X-rays do not add to the radioactivity of the atmosphere and that the use of isotopes does so to a quite negligible extent.