HC Deb 05 December 1967 vol 755 cc259-60W
Dr. Ernest A. Davies

asked the Minister of Technology if he will give an assurance that the programme of research on astrophysics undertaken at the Culham Laboratory of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority will be continued.

Mr. Benn

Careful consideration has been given to the future of the work on solar and stellar ultra-violet spectroscopy undertaken by the Atomic Energy Authority's Culham Laboratory using rockets provided by the Science Research Council, and of associated laboratory work of astrophysics interest. It is generally agreed that this work, which forms a part of the national space re- search programme, and is of outstanding scientific importance, should be continued. I am informed that, following discussion between the Atomic Energy Authority and the Science Research Council, it is proposed that the Science Research Council should from an early date begin to take over responsibility for the work of this group. Consultation with the staff interests concerned on this matter is now taking place.