UN General Assembly
1958

35. With regard to atomic radiation, the report of the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation presents in some ways a less frightening picture than some of us may have feared. But, even so, it does not reflect a situation that any of us can accept with complacency. The report shows that we have not stepped over the precipice. But the precipice is there, whether it is an inch or a mile away. One point which emerges from the report is that the exposure to radiation resulting from nuclear explosions so far, or even in the foreseeable early future, is very much less than that which arises from existing natural causes and from industrial research and medical application for peaceful purposes. Contamination could well become more significant as the peaceful application of atomic energy proceeds. This will need international as well as national consideration. I notice that the Economic and Social Council has asked the Administrative Committee on Co-ordination to examine the possibilities of concerted action by United Nations bodies in relation to the effects of radiation resulting from the peaceful uses of atomic energy. As far as the Scientific Committee's report is relevant for national action inside Australia, we are now haying it examined by the Australian National Radiation Advisory Committee. Australia is a member of the United Nations Scientific Committee and will continue to play a part in further international work in this field by the United Nations or the specialized agencies.