Speech #870167287

As the title signifies. this Bureau has jurisdiction not only over the regular consular duties. but also the internal and physical security affairs of the Department. Because of the inherent disparity between these two classes of duties. it has been thought desirable from the standpoint of sound administration to divide these two functions into separate offices each to be headed by an official who possesses expertise in the affairs of his respective office. Under title I. section 101 provides a substitute for section 104 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Subsection (a) of the proposed section 104 of the basic act restates the provisions of existing law relating to the powers. duties. and functions of the Secretary of State and the diplomatic and consular officers of the United States in the administration of the immigration and nationality laws. Subsection (b) of the proposed section 104 creates a new office within the Department of State which shall be charged with the administration of the laws relating to passports. visas. consular affairs. international migratory affairs. activities extending legal protection and assistance to refugees. and other related functions which may be delegated by the Secretary of State. The head of this newly created office shall be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. He shall hold the rank and compensation of an Assistant Secretary of State and shall be a citizen of the United States who possesses expert knowledge of nationality laws. immigration laws. and international migration affairs. The appointive head of this office. in administering the laws charged to his office. shall maintain close liaison with the Immigration and Naturalization Service in order to assure uniform interpretations of such laws. He shall also maintain close liaison with the appropriate committees of Congress in order to be advised regarding the administration of the laws and affairs of the act. Section 102 of title I contains provisions designed to enable uninterrupted operations of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Section 103 of title I authorizes the establishment within the Department of State. under the immediate jurisdiction of the Deputy Under Secretary of State for Administration. of an administrative unit. This unit shall be headed by an official. other than a Foreign Service officer. who is a citizen of the United States and qualified by experience in all facets of security affairs.