1 December 1950: Reacting to Truman's Speech

This memorandum for Pearson illustrates the weight of public opinion holding the Canadian government accountable if the bomb were to be used. The DEA believed that Canadians would see the government as having “failed in its duty” if the United States used atomic weapons without consulting Canada. However, the DEA acknowledges, Canada had “no legal right” to contribute to decision-making on the use of the atomic bomb. All the same, they believe they have a stronger case as a “member of the inner circle on atomic matters and as an active U.N. partner in Korea,” reflecting a desire to influence US policy regarding the use of atomic weapons.