A Single System of Accountability

As Dr. North has indicated, we are here today to explore the ramifications of what is commonly called a single system of accountability. For my part, I would like to review briefly the background that led to the existing system and then describe what is now being developed. At last year's meeting in Buffalo I reviewed for you the development of the AEC's nuclear materials program from 1946 to the present, emphasizing the various phases from government-owned, contractor-operated plants and cost-plus-fixed-fee contracts to privately-owned plants with full financial responsibility for losses. Also, the effect of private ownership of special nuclear material from the AEC's nuclear materials management standpoint was postulated.