Speech #850045887

I agree fully with the comment he has just made. as I do with his entire statement. I should like to make one or two other points by way of questioning. in addition to the points we have discussed. Of course. there is before the Congress and In committee a twopronged proposal for revision both of the provisions of existing law with respect to refugees and also of the provisions of the basic act. I know the Senator shares my concern that we should act at this session on both of these great problems in regard to refugees. Among other things. we should legalize the status of those thousands of people who are here now. whose ability to do the normal things citizens of this country can do for themselves and in aid of the countrysuch as service in the Armed Forces. defense work. and all the restis impaired. They should not be barred from that service by an uncertain status. We must take care of the present parolees. and we must provide for additional refugees. in a number which in its own judgment Congress can decide but which certainly should be sufficient to take care of similar emergencies that may arise in the future. to meet this countrys obligation in this troubled time which may last for many years. I am sure the Senator will agree there ought to be some provision not only for a proper and reasonable share of refugees from Communist tyranny. but also refugees from other tyranny in spots where it occurs throughout the world. Of course. we have in mind immediately the question of the unfortunate Jewish people in Egypt at this time. Speaking for myself. and I am sure for many of my colleagues.