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Items of Information
a.
Air Force Activities at Pacific Proving Grounds
In response to a question by Mr. Strauss, Mr, Fields.
said the Department of the Air Force had obtained AEC approval
for use of the Pacific Proving Grounds during recent tests of
missiles,
b.
Congressman Durham's Speech Before the Atomic
Industrial Forum
Mr, Strauss commented that he understood Congressman
Durham's speech to be presented before the Atomic Industrial
Forum later in the day contained criticism of the Commission's
activities.
Mr. Graham reported on a recent conversation with
Congressman Durham in which he had expressed satisfaction with
the progress of Western European atomic energy programs.
Congressman Durham had commented favorably particularly on the
French program and their plans for developing weapons and gaseous
diffusion programs.
Mr. Strauss observed that inspection
activities at French facilities are in need of improvement,
c.
Mr. Charles Weaver's Speech Before the Atomic
Industrial Forum
Mr, Strauss commented briefly on the recent speech
of Mr, Charles Weaver, President of the Westinghouse Electric
Company, before the Atomic Industrial Forum. Mr. Weaver had
indicated that large industrial companies which have participated
in the civilian atomic energy program have lost money through
incorrect engineering estimates, These companies also feel that
the Government should provide increased assistance to new civilian
reactor projects. Mr. Strauss said that after the speech Mr,
Gordon Dean, former Chairman of the AEC, had expressed his
approval of Mr. Weaver's speech,
d.
Florida Nuclear Power Group Negotiations
In response to a question by Mr. Libby, Mr, Fields
said Mr. Roddis and other staff members are currently participating
in negotiations with the Florida Nuclear Power Group.
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