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Dr. Pack's office,
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that such would be the case.
au
Alternatively,
refusal to allow one of these groups of physicians selected
by the Micronesian Congress,
to visit Rongelap similarly
would result in anti-American propaganda and embarrassment.
This highly sensitive and possibly explosive local political
situation was described in similar terms by Department of
the Interior officials, Dr. Peck, and High Commissioner
Johnston.
Tt occurred to me while on Saipan,
when I learne@ad that the
committee to investigate the situation had just adjcurnea,
that perhaps D/HEW (PHS) might be able to conduct these
examinations as an independent U.S. Agency and, thus, provide
a sOlution for all concerned.
Dr. Peck was enthusiastic
about the suggestion.
Next I checked with the High
Conunissioner who similarly was enthusiastic. To make certain
that no unintentional bureaucratic snafu would result,
I
called Commissioner Clarence Larson of the Atomic Energy
Commission here in Washington and despite the nine-hour time
difference, and the not inconsiderable telephone difficulties,
I was able to present the proposal to Commissioner Larson
who relayed it at 9 p.m, Washington time to Chairman
Schlesinger of the AEC.
Both felt it to be a worthwhile
solution, if acceptable to the Micronesians.
While the Trust Territory Committee had already completed
its session end one member had left Saipan,
the others
were williug to return for a session with me.
Several
Peace Corps lawyers acted as counsel and/or administrative
aides to the members of the subcommittec.
I spent over an
hour answering questions.
It was an excellent session
and eguivalent to many I have experienced here in Washinguon.
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