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this area to Honolulu and the Hawaiian Islands,
General Starbird
outlined the extent of the danger area around Johnston Island and
said the shot would actually be about 800 miles from Honolulu.
He added that aircraft and shipping in the Johnston Island area
could be easily controlled.
The Commissioners discussed the question of Air Force
control of Johnston Island and thelr approval of its use by the
AEC.
Mr. Strauss suggested that the DOD be informed of the
Commission's position regarding cancellation of the high altitude
shots at Eniwetok.
At the same time, the Commission's preference
of Johnston Island as an alternative location for the high
altitude shots should be discussed.
Subject to DOD concurrence
of this alternative location and a final determination by the
President, plans would be carried out for proceeding with the
shots at Johnston Island.
Mr. Graham questioned the possible use of Christmas Island
as an alternative location.
General Starbird said that it is
believed that the U.K. will be undertaking test activities at
the same time the high altitude shots are to be carried out,
Mr. Strauss also commented on such factors as U.S. control of the
area, the consultations required with the U.K., and reciprocal |
use by the U.K. of facilities at Eniwetok which would be involved
in the use of Christmas Island,
Mr. Fields observed that if the
UK, was permitted reciprocal use of Eniwetok, other U.S. allies
might request similar consideration with the possible result that
this question would again be raised in the United Nations.
Mr, Floberg inquired about the additional time required
if the shots are to be moved to Johnston Island.
General Starbird
replied that necessary construction work and the movement of
personnel would require an additional five or six months,
He
added that this might be a conservative estimate of time required,
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OUICLAIL USi, Qiao