119 
debate. The ultimate result was the adoption of a revision 
of the land-locked/shelf-locked study resolution, as well 
as a companion resolution introduced by Peru calling for 
an analysis of the effect of different limits on coastal 
States. The U.S. has consistently supported reasonable 
requests for studies and information on Law of the Sea sub- 
jects, and in accordance with this policy we supported both 
the ital ae ul proposal and the Peruvian pro- 
posal. 
One other significant development at this General As- 
sembly, fortunately in keeping with the spirit that domin- 
ated the negotiation of the Conference Resolution, was 
the fact that no new resolution calling for a moratorium 
on deep seabed activities was introduced. While it would 
not be accurate to interpret this as an indication that 
States supporting the earlier moratorium resolution have 
changed their opinion, we believe that the avoidance of 
a renewed and divisive debate on this subject was related 
to the general attempts to ensure the best possible atmo- 
sphere as we enter the final stage of preparatory work 
this year. Needless to say, our own opposition to the 
moratorium remains unchanged. 
Turning to H.R. 9, the considerations expressed in 
our letter of May 19, 1972 on 8.2801 (identical to H.R. 
13904) remain applicable, and generally set forth the 
factors affecting our approach to H.R. 9. In the time 
that has elapsed, however, we have been able to give 
further cosideration to the matter in the light of in- 
ternational and domestic developments. We are accord=- 
ingly in a position now to state a more definitive view 
on H.R. 9 and interim mining activities. 
First, we adhere to the policy on this subject con- 
tained in the President's Oceans Policy Statement of May 23, 
1970. We continue to believe that it is necessary to achieve 
timely widespread international agreement on outstanding 
Law of the Sea issues in order to save over two-thirds of 
the earth's surface from national conflict and rivalry, 
protect it from pollution, and put it to use for the bene- 
fit of all. It remains vital to all our national inter- 
ests involved in the Law of the Sea Conference that the 
world agree on a treaty that will properly accommodate 
