§ 129. Mr. Warbeyasked the Minister of Defence whether he will now publish the additional information in the possession of the Government regarding the nature of hydrogen-uranium bomb explosions; the composition of the fallout; and the extent of the area potentially exposed to dangerous radio-active particles.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydI am not prepared to disclose any information concerning the design of nuclear weapons. The composition of fall-out from any nuclear explosion and the extent of the area exposed to dangerous radio-activity depend on the type and yield of the weapon and on the height at which it is detonated. The United States Atomic Energy Commission issued a Report on 15th February last giving information concerning the effects of one particular weapon exploded in particular circumstances. A copy of this Report is in the Library of the House.
§ 130. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Minister of Defence to make a statement on the explosion of a hydrogen bomb in the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydI would refer the hon. Member to my reply yesterday to the hon. Member for West Ham, North (Mr. Lewis).
§ 131. Mr. J. R. H. Hutchisonasked the Minister of Defence what information he has regarding the recent hydrogen bomb explosion in the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics; and what reports of fall-out effects have reached him, and from what countries.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydIn reply to the first part of the Question, I would refer my hon. Friend to my answer yesterday to the hon. Member for West Ham, North (Mr. Lewis).
With regard to the second part, I have seen in the Press reports from many countries of increased radio-activity in the atmosphere. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Works is answering a Question today about the situation in the United Kingdom.