424. Letter From Herter to McCone1
We have carefully considered the views and recommendations set forth in your letter of February 2 to Secretary Dulles concerning the [Typeset Page 1573] current Geneva negotiations on suspension of nuclear weapon tests. This letter confirms the position expressed by Mr. Dulles in his meeting with you on January 30, and by Mr. Dillon during a further discussion on February 12.
We understand and appreciate the difficulties involved in working out an adequate technical system for detecting and identifying certain types of nuclear explosions. We continue to believe, nevertheless, that the over-riding need at the present time is to maintain pressure on the Soviet Union with regard to the key political issues of the organization and functioning of the Control Organization. So long as the Soviets maintain their demands for a veto and for staffing of control posts in the Soviet Union with their own nationals, no technical control system, whatever its capabilities, could be effective.
Your suggestion for an agreement involving atmospheric testing only as an initial step is, as you know, one which we believe should be reserved as a possible full-back position for use in the event the present effort fails.
With warmest personal regards,
Most sincerely,
Acting Secretary
- Source: Rejects AEC position on nuclear testing suspension talks. Secret. 1 p. NARA, RG 59, Central Files, 700.5611/2–259.↩