Speech #870289060

On August 3. 1961. I spoke in the House of Representatives. denouncing hijacking of Continental Airlines plane. I made a vigorous statement. calling for action by appropriate legislative committees re enlarging the kidnaping law or providing stronger penalties for hijacking. re close scrutiny over regulations and security for aviation. re strengthening and tightening up security measures in our receiving and processing of Cuban refugees. Hearings and investigations were undertaken without delay. All of my suggestions were favorably acted upon. The Immigration Subcommittee of the House Judiciary Committee reported to the Congress regarding the security measures used in examining Cuban refugees. as follows: A subcommittee of this committee has extensively reviewed administrative and security operations conducted by the Departments of State and Justice [Immigration and Naturalization. Service] in connection with the entry of Cuban refugees into the United States and their remaining in this country pursuant to the applicable provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The committee Is satisfied that considering the realities and the circumstances under which the Cuban refugees leave their native island and reach the United States. the agencies involved exercise a satisfactory degree of diligence and watchfulness designed to protect the security of the United States. The committee wishes strongly to recommend that the applicable procedures be maintained and constantly reviewed with a view toward sustaining the Imperatively necessary degree of vigilance. On August 3. 1961.