New U.S. Observers For Antarctica

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31255, 30 December 1966, Page 8

New U.S. Observers For Antarctica

Nine new Antarctic observers have been appointed to conduct any inspections of the continent which the United States may require. They replace those who have been serving since 1963. The observers are Messrs E. Davies, a specialist in space observation and missile and rocket design; E. F. Dukes, Arms Control and Disarmament Agency research officer; Richard Gingland, of the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency; K. W. Kenyon, a specialist on conservation of birds and mammals; C. Muromcew, a specialist in earth sciences; C. J. Sindermann, a specialist in parasitology, marine biology and conservation; F. G. Siscoe, of the United States State Department Office of International Scientific and

Technological Affairs; M. Toon, State Department country director for Soviet Union Affairs, and A. I. Wortzel, State Department deputy director of the Soviet and East European Exchanges staff. Under terms of the 1961 Antarctic Treaty, the area may be used for peaceful purposes only. The treaty provides for freedom of scientific investigation and international co-operation, and bans nuclear explosions and the disposal of atomic waste there. Treaty signatories have the right of inspection and aerial observation. It also permits member nations to investigate stations maintained by the signatories in the area. Inspections have been made since 1963 when New Zealand, Australia and Britain inspected United States stations. In 1964 the United States inspected stations of Argentina, Chile, France, New Zealand, Britain and the Soviet Union. In 1965 and 1966 Argentina inspected a United States station. Other members of the treaty signed in 1960 are Belgium, Japan, Norway and South Africa. United States officials said that all 12 signatory nations are adhering to the letter and spirit of the treaty. They added that no Irregularities had been found during inspection, and none were expected.