Howard Berman: “I rise both in support of the underlying bill which I think is a very sensible effort to augment our ability to…”

“I rise both in support of the underlying bill which I think is a very sensible effort to augment our ability to ascertain the human rights situation in China by strengthening our on-the-ground operations there and the Gilman-Markey amendment which, to me, without prejudicing what our decision would be, enhances Congress' ability and the administration's ability to ensure that the representations and commitments made by the Chinese in the area of nuclear proliferation are being implemented and forced by expanding the time in which Congress has to review and decide whether to allow or disapprove of the agreement which has been certified. China's past record of abiding by its international commitments not to aid the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is not a good one. Congressional skepticism about Chinese promises is clearly warranted. There is time to consider the agreement, and the extension of that time and the expedited procedure which would allow a decision to be implemented without the threat of filibuster or delay in the other body is very critical in reducing the skepticism and reinforcing congressional support for the agreement should the record of implementation bring us to that conclusion. So for that reason, I think both the Chinese and the administration should welcome this.”