Speech #920206631

Speaker. I rise in support of House Concurrent Resolution 471 which seeks relief from restrictions on Soviet Jews. I have continuously spoken out to urge that the Soviet Union ease its harsh restrictions and permit Jewish citizens to preserve and practice their cultural heritage without harassment and to emigrate if they so choose. I have sought relief for Soviet Jews through other legislation which would provide for the issuance of emergency immigration visas for Soviet Jews. On March 6. in anticipation of the Presidents impending visit to the Soviet Union. I sent a letter to the White House urging that the plight of Jews in the Soviet Union be given the highest priority in the Presidents *meetings with Soviet leaders.