Page 35 from Truman. Papers of HST. Official File. OF 680. Army and Navy Munitions Board. Box 1681
Description
The April 1946 issue of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists discusses plans for international control of atomic energy. It highlights two key documents: the report of the State Department Committee on Atomic Energy and a Draft Convention prepared by scientists in Chicago. Both documents propose the establishment of an international agency to regulate atomic energy.
The State Department report suggests the creation of an Atomic Development Authority (ADA) with a monopoly on mining, refining, and production of uranium and plutonium. It also emphasizes research in nuclear physics and licensing and inspection of national and private activities in the field. Small-scale operations that do not lead to the production of atomic weapons may be permitted, but large power plants require international control due to their potential danger.
The Chicago draft similarly proposes an international atomic energy agency with positive functions. It suggests an Atomic Energy Commission for policy-making, an Administrative Commission for research and distribution of fissionable materials for small-scale activities, and an Inspection Commission for oversight. Private or national production or ownership of fissionable materials is not permitted.
The two plans align on many points, including the need for inspection and regulation. However, there are some differences. The State Department report looks forward to constructing and operating additional production plants in various countries under the ADA's supervision, while the Chicago draft proposes a temporary five-year moratorium on large-scale production. The Chicago draft also suggests a temporary interruption of large-scale production and a reexamination of the issue of power piles (nuclear reactors) after five years.
Overall, both documents represent efforts to establish an international framework for atomic energy control, with the aim of preventing atomic war and ensuring safe and responsible use of atomic energy resources.