An Analysis: U.S. Participation in the OECD Committee on Scientific and Technological Policy (CSTP).

The current work of OECD's Committee for Scientific and Technological Policy (CSTP) is grouped into five broad Themes plus a category of horizontal studies. The central focus of this report on Theme I, 'Science, Technology and Economic and Industrial Policy, ' which encompasses a wide range of technology issues that relate to economic policy and go to the heart of the CSTP raison d'etre. The United States has attached low priority to activities under Theme II, 'Government Policies and the Strengthening of the Research System.' In contrast, there is considerable interest and active participation in projects under Theme III, 'Information, Computer and Communication Policy, ' which deals with subjects high on the U.S. policy agenda. Theme IV, 'Scientific and Technological Relations with Developing Countries' has involved consultation among the OECD members on preparations for the U.N. Conference and Science and Technology for Development held in Vienna in August 1979. U.S. Participation on Theme V, 'Science and Technology Indicators' is provided by the National Foundation which is deeply interested in improving these important comparative data. Horizontal activities relating to OECD-wide questions or those cutting across the individual themes complete the CSTP program.