J Copy kL UNITED STATES wee ATOMIC. ENERGYCOMMISSION cee meekeB Jtaties ae ete ad Linked x reneeET et emer, Pear Mr. 409492 PDs amen emerae cae canta Folder 5 3 6 bn, 45 eR ee — ok O, Decne | Boy 7 7/6 | q ' ’ 326 1 ¢ aToEePTR! ‘7 3 WE = oe+ i 'WASHINGTON, D.c. 20545 . : ™ eR -e Camel OL- ae Sisco: Thank you for your letter of January 6, 1967, endorsing Secretary Udall's inquiry about the possibility of returning the Bikini natives to the Atoll. As you have noted, it will be necessary to resurvey most of the Atoll and lagoon and evaluate radiologically the levels of radioactivity to which the natives would be exposed were they to be returned. A number of measurements have been made in the area during the past two years, but for resettlement purposes a more comprehensive ecological evaluation is clearly in order. These studies will be undertaken as rapidly as necessary so that a decision can be reached expeditiously. The thought outlined in your last paragraph will underscore our efforts to reach an early decision on the habit- ability of the Atoll. Sincerely, Chairman Honorable Joseph J. Sisco Assistant Secretary of State BEST COPY AVAILABLE Washington, D. C. * Department of State 20520 . SSIFICATION CANC DOE NS! DECLASSIFICATION REVIEW EO. 19888 DOEMNNE23