Mr. Dixy Lee Ray
Pape 4
April 17, 1974
in comprehending risks from backeround radiation.
In any case,
we believe that it is vitally important to state the risks, however,
small,
from low dosage radiation,
sible to the Bikini people.
lief,
in a manner that is comprehen-
We are sure that you share this be-
and that the AEC will have constructive
ideas as to how to
present sophisticated concepts of radiation to a non-technological
society such as the Bikini people.
We ‘realize that the above request to state the risks of low dosage
radiation in a meaningful manner intrudes somewhat into the controversial areca surrounding the threshold or no threshold debate.
ive
do not suggest that we accept or reject cither theory.
However,
as stated by the National Council or Radiation Protection and
Measurements, ". . . prudence demands that, even though unproven,
the no threshold concept should be used for estimating the maxinun
deleterious effects of ionizing radiation."
(Basic Radiation Protection Criteria, p. 58)
What we are saying is that although it
may not be standard AEC volicy, for the purpose of evaluating and
Stating the risks to the Bikinians, the AEC should assume the nothreshold theory.
At the very least, we reauest that you evaluate
the risks using both threshold and no threshold assumnticns.
A number of Kili people may be able to return permanently to Bikini
We do not believe that their return is
-in the next month or so.
contingent upon receipt of the information requested in this letter.
Nevertheless, it would seem appropriate that a response he prepared
as soon as possible.
We look forward to receipt of the AEC evaluation of the concerns expressed above.
Sincerely,
HAMLET J. BARRY ,Iif
THEODORE R. MITCHELL
By:
xc:
--
Hamlet J.
Distad Marshalls
TT Environmental Protection Board
U.N. Trusteeship Council
‘Ataji Balos
“Ralph Waltz .
res
Roger Ray
HJBILI:bm
5009517
(Le fil CLOT ove E-
Barry,
.
”