SCC: neglected arms control tool

Journal Article · Fri Nov 01 04:00:00 EST 1985 · Bull. At. Sci.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1080/00963402.1985.11456065· OSTI ID:6494527

Graybeal, S N; Krepon, M

The standing Consultative Commission (SCC) is little known, poorly understood, and centrally important to the future of strategic arms control. Created by the SALT I accords in 1972, the Commission is empowered to consider, among other topics, SALT compliance questions and related situations, questions involving interference with national technical means of verification, possible changes in the strategic situation which have a bearing on treaty provisions, additional measures to increase the viability of existing agreements including amendments to treaty provisions, and proposals for further limiting strategic arms. In addition, the SCC commissioners are authorized to exchange relevant information and to draw up procedures for dismantling or destroying offensive and defensive weapons systems. To date, however, neither side has chosen to use the SCC to negotiate or to amend agreements. The SCC has concerned itself primarily with implementation and compliance questions for the SALT accords. Like other negotiating bodies, the SCC has no enforcement powers and cannot impose sanctions; it can succeed only when the political leadership in the Soviet Union and the United States seek mutually satisfactory solutions. 14 references.

• OSTI ID: 6494527
• Journal Information: Bull. At. Sci.; (United States), Journal Name: Bull. At. Sci.; (United States) Vol. 41:10; ISSN BASIA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
290600* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Nuclear Energy
ARMS CONTROL
NON-PROLIFERATION POLICY