03/05/1979
https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu...
"My nomination of Elliot Richardson, with his extensive experience and abilities, testifies to the importance I personally attach to achieving success in these negotiations."
"But we have been slow to appreciate their increasing importance."
"The Secretary of State and I consider the Law of the Sea negotiations to be a very high priority."
"I think that his appointment as Secretary of HEW will be a very good place for him to demonstrate his sensitivity about this need."