Brain Behind Britain's Atomic Weapon: Dr. William Penney (pictured here ***** year old Londoner, is regarded as certain - in his capacity as Chief Superintendent, Armament Research, Ministry of Supply - to have played a big part in the production of an atomic weapon in the United Kingdom. A statement issued from No. 10, Downing street, early to-day (Monday) say that the Government intend to test the weapon in Australia during the course of this year. Dr. Penney worked on the American atom project during the war and was present at the first Bikini explosion. February 18, 1952.