§ Mr. Dalyellasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on British participation in the international programme in meteorology; and if he will evaluate the progress of the work.
§ Mr. Merlyn Rees:As indicated in reply to the hon. Member for Rutherglen (Mr. Gregor Mackenzie) on 8th November, the United Kingdom is to make a substantial contribution to the World Weather Watch plan of the World Meteorological Organisation during 1968–71. A new upper air station which will meet World Weather Watch requirements 385W is already operational at the R.A.F. staging post at Masirah. Trials will shortly be made of upper air soundings from a merchant ship at sea. Planning of other activities is proceeding satisfactorily. I am writing to the hon. Member.