§ 82. Mr. Noel-Bakerasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, whether he will arrange to publish, as a White Paper or otherwise, the information available concerning the genetic effects of the increased radioactivity due to the explosion of nuclear weapons.
§ Mr. BevinsI should make it clear that, except for an area in the vicinity of the explosion, the increase in the radioactivity of the atmosphere resulting from the explosions of nuclear weapons which have so far taken place is negligible in comparison with the amount already present from natural causes. Investigations are continuing, but my noble Friend is advised that these have not reached the stage where any firm conclusions can be drawn from them with regard to the possible genetic effects of radioactivity on human beings.