Speech #680107814

I thank the Senator from Arizona. Mr. President. by the (.ourtesy of the Senator from Pennsyvania the Senate is made familiar with the substance of the provision which has been iciorporated by the conferees in the immigration bill. It would appear to be legislation by the conferees. but. passing over that: question. it would seem to constitute a recognition of the immigration question as a proper subject for international negotiations. it would seem to be an abandonment of the position the Government of the United States heretofore hls maintained that the question as to who shall be admitted into the United States is purely a domestic oq estion. I recall that the leader of the majority. the Senator from Massachusetts [Mr. Lonn]m . when the attention of the Senate Nas called to a communication from the Japanese ambassador recently. took the position that there could be no compromise upon that subject. that the United States has always maintained the position. which has been universally accepted by other nations. that questions pertaining to immigration are purely domestic questions which this Government can not afford to submit to negotiation. This provision would appear to repudiate that position and recognize the question of immigration as one appropriate for adjustment through treaty arrangement. It had just. as well be understood now that the Proposed amendment to the immigration bill. incorporated at the instance of the President. is one of very farreaching importance. If we recognize the light of Japan to stipulate the conditions upon which Japanese can come Into the United States we will be confronted immediately with the demand. from other nations which have equal rights to the same recognition. Do Senators expect that Italy will continue to recognize immigration as purely a domestic question if we concede to Japan that it is a proper subject for international negotiat ion. There is no desire. and there should be no desire. ofi lhe part of anyone to pursue a course which will work embarrassment to the Executive or occasion resentment on the part of any nation. but this is a question of overshadowing importance. Once you recognize the right of any foreign governmeat or people to Insist upon particlpatimg in determining the terms and conditions upon which their nationals may be admitted to the United States you abandon the position that imnigration is a domestic question and you recognize that it is an international issue.