News In Brief

A-tests in South Pacific to continue, France insists

France will carry on nuclear tests in the South Pacific indefinitely despite strong objections from nations in the region, French Foreign Minister Claude Cheysson said Tuesday. Defending France's nuclear policy during a two-day visit here, Mr. Cheysson said his government was convinced the nuclear deterrent was the best arm for peace. Asked why France could not conduct its tests nearer home in the Mediterranean, Cheysson said underground testing without danger could only be conducted in certain geological zones - such as the south Pacific.