Speech #810154777

I rise primarily for the purpose of discussing the motion to recommit this bill to the Judiciary Committee. I do not propose at this time to delve deeply into the merits or demerits of the bill which the Judiciary Committee has reported for the purpose of action by the Senate. It is my opinion that we cannot delay much longer in enacting a new law on this subject. especially when there has been so much sincere interest among the American people concerning the thousands of refugees suffering from political and religious oppression. There is no place in such a law for discriminatory treatment of displaced persons because of their race or religion. There is- no place In such a law for rigid restrictions on nationality which. under the present act. have had the effect of cutting down the number of refugees who can qualify for admission to the United States. I should like at this time to discuss briefly the circumstances which prompted my action In submitting a resolution asking for the discharge of the Judiciary Committee from further consideration of this matter. It was clear to all that the Displaced Persons Act required many fundamental changes.