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To : Chief, Security Research Staff

FROM : Chief, Technical Branch

1. I have examined proposals and I feel that I should make the following comments:

a) The idea of a courier that has been hypnotized is not new and I am absolutely certain did not invent this idea. We ourselves have carried out much more complex problems than this and in a general sense I will agree that it is feasible. However, there is no proof whatsoever that the hypnosis cannot be broken by another competent hypnotist feels this is possible) and the entire test has not yet been subjected to actual field conditions (long travel, time, etc.).

b)·As far as third-degree tactics are concerned, we do not know as yet what happens to an hypnotized individual.under the third-degree or plied.with chemicals of various types. Whether or not he will disclose hypnotic material or indicate he possesses same has not been determined. Again this is a test that"we hope to carry out in the future, as you know.

proposokthat a subject "will have no knowledge of ever having bcen hypnotized" is debatable. In regard to this, we are not yet certain .but possibly through the use of subtle chemicals and/or a very careful cover, it might be done. It is conceivable it could be accomplished if the subject were not unduly suspicious,extremely naive or very stupid but again this point is questionable.

proposal about using hypnotized individuals as counteragents is also not new and we, of course, have discussed this many times. Whether or not it can in fact be demonstrated we are not sure and it is hoped that the fieId tests we are working on may help us along these' lines.

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proposals are, of course, lacking in details and I. am quite certain he has never carried any of these things out except in laboratory type experiments. We, of course, have bcen able to produce these results but again only in laboratory experiments and I assure you we would not be as emphatic about the success of these things as

f) I think it very important that if does come to Washington you and I should nave the opportunity to discuss at length and in detail his ideas.

g) .If you will recall, among others long ago proposed the courier idea and in some ways believes that given sufficient time and the opportunity for "correct training", he could condition individuals for these purposes if certain conditions wcre met. as you also recall is not greatly impressed by

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