Western efforts to control trade and technological relations with communist countries affect many interests and political groups in both Eastern and Western blocs. Although there is general agreement within the Western alliance that government-imposed controls are necessary to prevent material having military importance from falling in the hands of the Soviet Union and its Warsaw Pact allies, there is considerable controversy over the specifics: the exact definition of "militarily significant" material, how the Western nations should administer controls, the implications of glasnost, and other matters.

I wish to acknowledge the assistance of Dr. Charles F. Elliott and Dr. John P. Hardt. Their guidance, encouragement and gentle prodding contributed greatly to the completion of this research. The Institute for Sino-Soviet Studies and the Graduate Program in Science, Technology, and Public Policy of the George Washington University gave valuable financial assistance. The final manuscript reflects the diligent and expert typing assistance of Mary Helen Holliday Seal.