sy CONFIRMED TO BE UNCLASSIFIEDWEETING TO DISCUSS RETURN OF THE AUTHORITY: DOE/SA~-20 NATIVES TO THE BIKINI ATOLL BY R=—SCuMEST, DATE: b.@. SiILSon . “16-9 A meeting was held at the ABC H Street office February 28, 1968, to discuss preliminary results of the Bikini Atoll survey of April-May 1967 and to consider actions by the Federal Government in returning the native population to Bikini Atoll in the near future. It was generally agreed that all agencies represented at the meeting would support authorizing a return of the Bikinians to the atoll if the studies indicate this is feasible and if the safety of the natives can be assured. \ BUG POO Hi f M. Holland, OSD, ISA R. Milner, Department of the Interior E. Johnson, NSC , . Fritsch, AEC UW hd bo oD Y Attendees were: Honorable W. R. Norwood, High Commissioner, Trust Territories - Totter, DBM, AEC Gustafson, DBM, AEC Maxwell, DOS, AEC The problems discussed in some detail that would need solution before approval could be given for rehabilitation included the health and safety for a returning population, requirements for Air Force usage of the area (no decision on the future use has been stated) and agricultural rehabilitation which appears to entail a great deal of careful planning and work prior to a return of any inhabitants who will depend on the resources of the island for their livelihood. Dr. Fritsch indicated that the Commission generally favored returning the native population if conditions permitted. It was noted that the Air Force presently holds the atoll and their approval must also be obtained. Mr. Holland stated that the Air Force would be queried as to any future requirement for the atoll. Commissioner Norwood stated that 723 Pp nerwmny 735