In March 1970 the islands of the Bikini Atoll were officially returned to the Trust Territory Government. The formal agreement between the United States and the Trust Territory Government 1s the first step in the eventual transfer cf the land to the people. (FYI: The only remaining Department of Defense interest in Bikini is with respect to-very small--less than one acre each-- military retention areas on two small islets in the Bikini Atoll. These areas may in the future be used to accommodate radar reflecto to permit precise navigation in the area. The Department of Defense also retains the right to use the pier, air field, and boat landing area on Eneu Island.) . -¢ Eniwetok The situation regarding the people of Eniwetok District now residing on the Island of Ujelang has been raised in previous years. In 1969 this situation was the subject of a petition. The Delegation may wish to note for the Trusteeship Council that Eniwet will be returned to the Trust Territory at the end of 1973. (See ‘copy of Article from Pacific Daily News at the end of Section on Military Items.) We are additionally mindful of the welfare of these people and have taken active steps to insure that current conditions on Ujelang are improved. An ex gratia agreement between the administering authority and representatives of the people was executed in August 1969 which provides for $1,020,000 payment to the people administered through a trust fund. As -trustee, the High Commissioner shall pay to or apply for the benefi of the people all net income from the trust. may also be paid out. In addition, principa Kwajalein The Delegation might receive questions beth on the Mid-Corricor situation and an conditions in Ebeye in general. If asked about the desire of the former inhabitants (originally 158 people) of the Mid-Corridor of Kwajalein Atoll to return to their homes, the Delegation may wish to state that the possibility of returning the people has been examined in some detail. For reasons involving the safety of the people themselves, the United States is now and certainly has been concerned about the welfare of these people. ‘In December 1970 the Defense Department (Army) negotiated . a new agreement for compensating the dis»vlaced people of the Mid-Corridor. It provides that the traditional leaders will receive an annual payment of $420,000 to be distributed as appropriate to people having property rights in the Mid-Corridor Li FICIAL USE IF Bre S fai!