Barney Frank: “I think if we have the top line number and people can calculate the percentages, that is fine. Mr. Chairman, let me say…”

“I think if we have the top line number and people can calculate the percentages, that is fine. Mr. Chairman, let me say, as I recall these debates, and the gentleman from Washington has been in them as well, we never debate more than the top line number, because none of us really think that we ought to be getting into the line items. This is one authorization where I do not remember any line item amendments. The amendments have generally been the overall ones. I think that reinforces the view that is what is appropriate for the House overall is the overall number. In my amendment, I gave flexibility below that.”