test ban remains a long-term goal. Progress will be made only by a step-by-step approach. This must take account of technical advances on verification, as well as progress elsewhere in arms control and the attitude of other States. My delegation looks forward to discussing all these issues in the Ad hoc Committee. We hope its substantive work can begin soon so that some of the important ground can be covered in the weeks ahead. We plan to make an active contribution. CD/PV.565 14 (Mr, Kenyon. United Kingdom) Finally, may I add our congratulations to Ambassador Donowaki on his appointment to chair the Committee and his efforts in bringing about consensus on a mandate. This makes his appointment particularly appropriate. I am sure he will bring the same distinction to his new role as the Chairman of the Committee. Mr. LEDOGAR (United States of America): The United States is also pleased that the Conference on Disarmament has now formed a committee to work on item 1 of its agenda, "Nuclear test ban". We have heard today important statements from Groups and from individual States. As a nuclear-weapon State with responsibilities to others that go beyond our own direct national defence and far beyond our national boundaries, the United States has a profound interest in this topic. The United States general views were also represented in the statement given a few minutes ago by Ambassador Wagenmakers on behalf of a group comprising most of the Western countries. But let me give the Conference some brief additional comments that relate to the national position of the United States. The position of the United States with regard to a test ban has not changed. In a spirit of compromise to facilitate the formation of the 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a diplomatic statement discussing a long-term goal of a nuclear test ban, and the progress towards achieving it. The language used is formal and official, indicating that it is a government statement or a statement made by a representative of a country. The focus on international cooperation, verification, and the involvement of various countries suggests that the topic is a global issue that requires international agreement and coordination.

**Category**
International relations, Science and technology