On the recordJanuary 31, 1994
I think we should let the Secretary, if he chooses, have any number of Assistant Secretaries or cut them, either way. I feel particularly strongly on this, because many years ago not enough attention was being given to the 70 percent of the Earth that was covered by the ocean. I can remember arguing with Dean Rusk at several meetings and in several Congresses about the necessity of having a bureau that would focus on the oceans, which is now expanded to include scientific affairs on ocean and environmental affairs. I think sometimes when Congress wants to underline that point, as they have on a couple of occasions, that should be permitted. I think to take this power away from the Secretary would be a mistake. And, as fond as I am of the Senator from North Carolina, I must regretfully disagree with him on this matter.
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