Decision Paper on Nuclear Policy

This memorandum from Frank Zarb expresses reservations about the recommendations and direction of the Nuclear Policy Review Group's decision paper. The FEA believes that the proposed policies are insufficient to control proliferation and highlights the difficulties of implementing the initiatives worldwide. The memorandum also emphasizes the need to consider the impact of international posture on domestic nuclear energy development. The cooperation of other supplier nations is seen as critical, but uncertain. The FEA stresses the importance of preventing the diversion of nuclear fuel materials for weapons use and states that current approaches are not acceptable. The FEA outlines its positions on specific issues, including the application of restraints policy to existing agreements, the international position on reprocessing, domestic reprocessing, waste management, and other initiatives. The FEA supports certain options but emphasizes the need for full cooperation from all supplier nations. The memorandum concludes by suggesting that the Nuclear Policy Council develop proposals for strengthening international controls and obtaining necessary cooperation, which could justify a Presidential statement on these issues.