Max Baucus: “I rise to address two important international trade issues raised in this bill: trade in conflict diamonds and trade…”

“I rise to address two important international trade issues raised in this bill: trade in conflict diamonds and trade adjustment assistance. I thank Senator Gregg and Senator Durbin for taking on the important issue of so-called ``conflict diamonds.'' As we have all seen reported in the press, the struggle for control of diamond mining areas in Africa by various rebel groups have led to the commission of some terrible atrocities against unarmed civilians. My colleagues Senator Gregg and Senator Durbin have both introduced bills aiming to stem the trade in conflict diamonds. I applaud them for their efforts. The appropriations measure that we are considering today includes language that would implement S. 1084, Senator Durbin's bill to halt U.S. imports of conflict diamonds. Some of the measures used in this legislation to respond to the conflict diamond problem fall within the jurisdiction of the Finance Committee. Therefore, the preferred method for considering this measure would be to hold a hearing and mark up the bill in the Finance Committee. In this case, however, there is a certain urgency to taking action on the issue of conflict diamonds in order to halt the atrocities that continue to take place in Africa and restore the confidence of the diamond-buying public in the United States.”