DR. EMERSON was then asked to discuss the report by Neel and Schull

on the genetics study on Japanese children. He distributed a chart
which was discussed. DR. GLASS raised some questions
about the statistics and suggested slight modifications.
After a considerable discussion of the report of
GENETIC
Neel and Schull and the inconclusiveness of their
STUDY
study, it was agreed to avoid misleading statements
OF
about the conclusions. Since this report is being
JAPANESE
discussed in the forthcoming Semi-annual Report,
the exact wording is important since the report has
such widespread distribution and because of the
current UN Scientific Committee consideration of
such problems. DR. GLASS expressed strong opposition to any summary
or conclusion in the Semi-annual Report with the emphasis that
Dr. Neel had given to it regarding the lack of genetic effect without
any compensating considerations. DR. WARREN suggested that the
initial summary use the exact words followed by the statement that:

"However, the staff of the Division of Biology and Medicine feels

that the following viewpoint should be presented",

DR. DUNHAM suggested asking Dr. Neel to approve thefirst“and Last

sentence but avoid detailed discussion. A further discussion
followed to which the matter of whether any official statement by
the AEC had yet been made regarding the genetic effect of the
radiation from the bombs. It was the general concensus that the
AEC had not made any conclusive statements.

DR. BUGHER warned

against making any statement that the mewspapers could pick up as
a matter of disagreement between the AEC and a scientific report.
DR. GLASS expressed concern about putting any statement in the

Semi-annual Report that would increase public apprehension further.

DR. WARREN expressed the opinion that it would be improper for the
AEC to put interpretations on the work of a competent investigator.
Further discussion concluded in the suggestion that Dr. Emerson
visit Ann Arbor to obtain some agreement with Dr. Neel.

DR. DUNNING was then asked to present his report on radioactive
contamination of Pacific areas, the outline of which appears as
“Appendix B". After Dr. Dunning's report (augmented
by Dr. Conard who had actively participated in the

RETURN
OF
RONGELAPESE

study), Dr. Dunbam asked for any comments from the

Committee concerning the return of the natives to
Rongelap. The current low morale of the natives
was pointed out and the advantages of returning
them to their homes presented as a factor which
should be balanced against the possible radiation
hazard in their return. It had been suggested by

Dr. Conard that they be permitted to return in April or May, 1958.

Further discussion followed as to means of continuing the monitoring
of these natives and also those from the Island of Uterick for

Select target paragraph3