Pages 19-21 from FO 371 110691 - Atomic Energy

The Atomic Energy Official Committee met to discuss President Eisenhower's plan for atomic energy. They supported Lord Cherwell's view that progress couldn't be made on the constitutional framework without clarity on the plan's ultimate objective. Lord Cherwell highlighted two possible objectives: large-scale power production with significant contributions from countries or a more innocuous organization for international scientific exchange. The committee decided to seek clarification from the U.S. government on their objective. They emphasized the need to avoid committing too much and the potential economic disadvantages for the UK. They also mentioned the possibility of reconsidering their position if Soviet participation is ruled out. The draft telegram, attached to the minutes, instructs Sir R. Makins to raise these points with the State Department.