Speech #760252494

Mr. Chairman. I am very much opposed to the amendment that was offered by our good friend. the gentleman from New York . in view of the fact that the Committee on Immigration and Naturalization is holding hearings at the present time on this refugee problem. We are hearing witnesses from all over the country relative to this matter. There was a bill just introduced by myself that was reported out by a subcommittee of the Committee on Immigration and Naturalization. and I want to read it to you. I want my good friend. the gentleman from New York . to listen to this: A bill to provide a temporary haven from the dangers of war for European children under the age of 16 Be it enacted. etc.. That for a period not to exceed 2 years from the date of the enactment of this act. or for such shorter period as the President may prescribe. children under 16 years of age who are citizens or residents of any country in Europe and who. in the opinion of the United States consul before whom they appear for visas. are seeking to enter the United States to be safe from the dangers or the effects of war. may be issued visas as temporary visitors and temporarily admitted to the United States. notwithstanding that (1) they are under 16 years of age. unaccompanied by or not coming to one or both of their parents. (2) their tickets or passage is paid for with the money of another. or they are assisted by others to come. or (3) their tickets or passage is paid for by any corporation. association. society. municipality. or foreign government. either directly or indirectly: Provided. however. That in all cases assurances have been given which satisfy the Attorney General that such children will be properly cared for and will not become public charges. Such children shall be exempt from the payment of head tax and visa fees. Such children may be admitted for a period of 2 years subject. however. to the power of the Attorney General to shorten or extend the period of admission upon a finding that such action would be in accordance with the purposes of this act. SEC. 2.