But in addition, countries would have the right to demand unlimited challenge inspections of any of each other's chemical plants.

Seoul can ease the way by limiting the number and kinds of challenge inspections it is demanding.

In addition, Soviet officials reportedly were more receptive to the American idea of "challenge" inspections on short notice when treaty violations are suspected.

Stringent challenge inspections can allay but not eliminate these concerns.

American and Soviet experts working in Geneva have now agreed on a procedure for challenge inspections of suspect facilities.

The challenge inspections could be difficult to carry out because they entail negotiations.

Among other things, he said, "we reached agreement on a very complete, detailed proposal for the conduct of challenge inspections."

American specialists are still arguing among themselves about procedures for special "challenge inspections" to be carried out at short notice at unspecified sites.

Administration conservatives, this source said, had persuaded the agencies that the Russians would not accept the challenge inspections.

There is also dispute within the Administration over what to propose in the way of special surprise "challenge" inspections.