NUCLEAR EXPLOSIONS OFF CHRISTMAS ISLAND

Mr D. S. Marshall asked the Chief Secretary whether the Singapore Government has been consulted by, and/or has made representations to, the British Government with reference to the latter Government's intention to carry out nuclear explosions based on Christmas Island.

Mr S. T. Stewart: The answer is no, Sir. The Member for Cairnhill will be aware that there are two Christmas Islands and that the tests are to be based on the one in the Pacific which is 6,600 miles from Singapore, and this is further from Singapore than the North Pole is. Perhaps the Member for Cairnhill is feeling a bit anxious because the Christmas Island in question is nearer to the Marshall Islands in the Pacific.

Mr Marshall: The Member for Cairnhill is not aware, Sir, that distance has any particular effect in respect of the very grave disturbance to the human person by these explosions, and I would like to understand from the Chief Secretary whether he considers the 6,600 miles to be such adequate protection that there is to be no representation on behalf of the human beings who comprise this island's population? No answer -

Mr Speaker: Order. That last remark must be withdrawn.

Mr Marshall: If it please you, Mr Speaker, Sir, I understand that no answer is sometimes a very eloquent reply; but if you rule that it is unparliamentary, I withdraw it.

Mr Speaker: Did I understand the Member for Cairnhill to use the word "elephantine"?

Mr Marshall: "Eloquent reply", Sir.

Mr Speaker: I beg the hon. Member's pardon.