Robert Smith: “Mr. Chairman, without getting into the question of trade with foreign countries, let me read for the record a quote from…”

“Mr. Chairman, without getting into the question of trade with foreign countries, let me read for the record a quote from the Taylor Grazing Act, and I am quoting: ``Grazing permits shall be issued only to citizens of the United States or to those who have filed the necessary declaration of intention to become such, or required by naturalization laws, and to groups, associations, or corporations authorized to conduct business under the laws of the State in which the grazing district is located.'' Well, Mr. Chairman, obviously if there are operations, foreign operations, they have to follow the law of this country and of the Taylor Grazing Act, so they have to be citizens. If this is a direct assault at, let us say, the Japanese, then maybe we ought to remind ourselves that Japan takes about $1 billion of beef every year, maybe it is a $2 billion market. I would suggest that if we are going to close the borders of America around this issue, then we indeed are going to cause international concerns. Foreign countries, whomever they may be, the people must be citizens to have this permit. But if they are targeted, they will obviously retaliate. So I see no reason for this amendment. It has no place in this discussion. We have had the discussion about fee increases. This is mischief. There is no purpose in it, and I suggest we oppose it.”