Speech #820205950

I shall certainly make every effort to see that it is considered and brought to a vote. However. I am also deeply concerned about the immigration bill. I am concerned because we are estopped from having a real hearing. in which the Amcrican people. including many civic. religious. and national groups and others may have an opportunity to express their opinion and point out the weaknesses of the McCarran bill and the meritsif there are anyof the substitute bill which my associates and I have introduced. I feel that it is proper to bring this matter vigorously to the attention of the Senate and of the American people. because when we vote on the bill which is to be taken up after the mine safety bill is disposed of. I think the Senate should be in possession of all the facts. and should decide not to take up the McCarran bill at that time. but to take up the St. Lawrence seaway measure. I think it should be made perfectly clear that in the opinion of the Senate a hearing should be afforded on the substitute immigration bill. I think that is a reasonable request. I believe that the protest and demand which have been made are fair.