HC Deb 05 December 1963 vol 685 cc218-9W
Sir J. Eden

asked the Minister of Aviation if he will make a statement on the progress of the British space programme.

Mr. J. Amery

My Department is carrying out a programme of research into the technology required for the civil and military exploitation of space. This is supplemented by work carried out in industry. The programme is currently being reviewed.

The design study of a communications satellite, which I announced in the debate on 29th March, has been completed. Its implications are now being studied. Twenty separate systems including 15 types of satellite were considered in a co-operative study undertaken by my Establishments, the Post Office and industry. Discussions are in progress with Europe for British participation in a satellite communications system. These will be followed by talks with the United States and other countries. We are keeping in close touch with the Commonwealth.

We are continuing to play our part in the negotiations for setting up the European Space Research Organisation. The Preparatory Commission of the Organisation has placed contracts for two preliminary satellite design studies on the Ministry of Aviation. We are also to supply a number of Skylark sounding rockets.

We are developing Blue Streak as part of the ELDO programme. The first Blue Streak will be launched from Woomera, probably in April, 1964.

Under the scientific space research programme, for which my right hon. and learned Friend the Minister for Science is responsible, the second Anglo-American scientific satellite awaits launching in the United States. My Department has placed a contract for the third satellite in the programme which will be the first British-made satellite. It should be ready for launching by the United States in about three years' time. Development of a stabilised version of the Skylark sounding rocket has reached an advanced stage.