Department of State Atomic Energy Files
Memorandum by the United States Representative on the Atomic Energy Commission (Baruch) to the Secretary of State
The Atomic Energy Commission has been given a definite task—in no mistakable language—by the Assembly, on the suggestion of the Foreign Secretaries and, originally, of the Chiefs of State.
The American representative on this Commission has made proposals aimed at carrying out the duties of the Commission, regarding atomic energy, which may well serve also to set a pattern for control of any other instrument of mass destruction, or indeed for all instruments of war.
In the United Nations General Assembly’s Political and Security Committee, discussions are taking place concerning atomic energy. The Atomic Energy Commission is about to bring forward a report on its own work which, necessarily is related to practically all of the points now being discussed in the Political and Security Committee. The adoption, by the Political and Security Committee, of specific resolutions relating to atomic energy, other than one asking the Atomic Energy Commission to expedite its report, may prejudice or even render impossible an unbiased report by the Commission, since certain [Page 1090] of its members are bound to be affected by their superiors now functioning in the General Assembly.
No one knows exactly what some of the words in these proposed General Assembly resolutions mean. Why pass them? Why not wait until the Atomic Energy Commission has made its report. Passing oblique resolutions may result in confusion and delay.
These declarations of principle should be referred to the Atomic Commission, which is charged with responsibility for an authoritative plan to be placed before the Security Council, while the General Assembly has only the right of recommendations. The Atomic Energy Commission should not be impeded by new and limiting instructions.
The American delegates are hampered more than others. We have not even had the benefit of a full exchange of views between those who are dealing with disarmament and those charged with atomic matters. There should be a close and constant liaison between them.
As you may recall, I suggested at the time Stettinius was our representative, that he, Winant, and I ought to discuss the subject of our duties. This you did not believe wise at the time. In addition, I was instructed to keep out of disarmament discussions, even though it was apparent such discussions would be closely connected with atomic energy and other weapons of mass destruction. The President, you and Senator Connally were especially emphatic that I try to avoid the subject of disarmament in my atomic energy actions.
I have not seen anything, so far, on disarmament, other than pious resolutions. On the other hand, the Atomic Commission is in the midst of preparing a definitive formula of action. But the program is bound to be deteriorated by pressures from outside sources.
Therefore, I ask that instructions be issued to our representatives on the Political and Security Committee, that all matters relating to atomic energy be referred to the Commission organized to deal with the subject. Also, that it be pointed out that if atomic energy is successfully dealt with in the Commission—and I believe it may be—other categories of armaments can be similarly treated.
What I ask for is support in the effort the President and you requested me to direct, instead of permitting it to be submerged in a sea of words which, unless canalized, will result only in harm, through obscurity and delay.
Delay is dangerous. Action is essential. I know that course has your warm approval. The way to get action is to concentrate the efforts in the one place where final responsibility exists. It is to that end that I address this letter to you.