ATPOMIC ENERGY


Department believes that this background information is necessary in
order to establish the limits of comment and to channel otherwise un-
controlled public discussion at home and abroad along lines most
favorable to the achievement of U.S. foreign policy objectives.
  The Atomic Energy Commission has concurred informally in the
questions and answers, land in the view that they should be made
available as described above.
  The Department of Defense considers that any further information
beyond that contained in the President's announcement of January 31
would serve no useful purpose at this time. It agrees, however, that
if a decision is made that it is necessary to provide background
information, these questions and answers are satisfactory.
  This material is submitted for the President's approval in accord-
ance with the third paragraph of his decision of January 31 regarding
work on the hydrogen bomb.2

                              [Annex]
     Questions and Answers Prepared -in the Department of State

TOP SECRET                         [WASHINGTON,] February 8, 1950.
  1. Does scientific evidence make it appear likely that hydrogen
bombs can be made?
    The hydrogen bomb is theoretically possible. The principles
         underlying it have been known to scientists here and abroad
         for a number of years. There have been many papers pub-
         lished as to the scientific possibility of such a weapon in the
         last ten or twelve years.
  2. What is the cost of the program?
    A definite answer cannot be given, but it appears that some of
         the press estimates are exaggerated.
  3. How long would it take to produce one?
    To answer this question would not be compatible with national
         security.
  4. Would our possession of this weapon make a foregone conclusion
that it would be used in case of war?
    No. The decision as to use would be made at the proper time in
         the light of all relevant considerations.
  5. Is the President's announcement regarding the hydrogen bomb
likely to cause any change in Soviet policies?
  2During a conversation with Secretary Acheson on February 16, President
Truman indicated that he did not wish the questions and answers to circulate
(memorandum of conversation by Acheson, February 16, 1950, Policy Planning
Staff Files).


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