Pages 9-14 from FCO 66846 Nuclear Suppliers Group; Policy - 1976

The Chairman's notes summarize the discussions of the Study Group on Reprocessing during a meeting of the Nuclear Suppliers Group in London in October 1976. The meeting focused on the concepts of multinational fuel centers and international management of excess plutonium and spent fuel stocks to prevent uncontrolled proliferation of reprocessing capabilities and weapons use. The discussions highlighted the need for both short-term and long-term solutions, with considerations of economic justification, proliferation risks, safeguards, incentives, and the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The group reached consensus on several points, including the usefulness of multinational fuel centers and the need for international control of excess plutonium stocks. However, there were differing views on various aspects, such as the role of the IAEA, the distinction between plutonium and irradiated fuel, and the location and management of international storage facilities. The notes emphasize the urgency and complexity of the issue and recommend further studies and actions by the Nuclear Suppliers Group.