I have in mind that I may support the proposition if there is a test vote in this present bill. I think that as we move closer to the independence of the Philippines that the people of the United States. as well as the Filipinos. will take on a more serious attitude insofar as naval and m!litary defense of the islands are concerned. If the Asiatic war troubles continue and perhaps increase. as we move toward July 4. 1946. our people will have to reach definite conclusions as to whether or not we are to step out of the Philippines from a military and naaval standpoint. and let occur in the Far East whatever may take place as a result of our complete withdrawal. or. reach conclusions as to whether or not we go back into the Philippines from a military and naval standpoint in the event a major far eastern power decides to move into the Philippines against the desires of the Filipinos. or with their cooperation. If the thought is in the mind of some of the Filipino leaders that we will furnish them military and naval assistance subsequent to their obtaining independence. that is something for the United States to become concerned about. On the other hand. if the Filipinos are in position to make their own economic situation work out satisfactorily. with whatever trade agreements they may arrange with us. or whatever trading arrangements they may bring into operation through the exchange of goods between the Philippines and the United States on a freeofduty basis and at the same time take care of their own military and naval defense directly or in conjunction with some other foreign power. then that is something additional our people can. well be concerned about.