This measure also makes numerous improvements affecting the educational benefits and employment of veterans.

I am pleased today to sign into law H.R. 901, the 'Veterans' Benefits Amendments of 1989.'

H.R. 901 provides a 4.7 percent increase in compensation and DIC benefits, effective December 1, 1989.

I think events in Eastern Europe are driving some to suggest that we can dramatically slash our defense budget.

It is timely that we take a new look at some of the commercial constraints.

We spelled out at NATO the four points that relate to German reunification.

I feel that France and the United States, regarding these dynamic changes that are taking place, are very close together.

I would simply add to that that the cooperation has been superb.

We should also acknowledge the contribution of an oversight subcommittee, the House Government Operations Subcommittee on Employment and Housing, for adding to our understanding of the past problems at HUD.

H.R. 1 will improve program management and financial accountability at HUD and make that Department's programs less susceptible to waste, fraud, abuse, and political influence.

The speedy enactment of H.R. 1 is a tribute to the work of a great many people.

I appreciate the expeditious manner in which our proposed reforms were considered and approved.

In conclusion, never again must we let the programs of the Department of Housing and Urban Development -- or any other agency -- be abused for political purposes or personal gain.

I am disappointed that H.R. 1 fails to include a number of recommendations contained in the October 31st legislative package.

I am pleased that the bill also authorizes funds to improve program evaluation and monitoring, thus enabling HUD to use its resources more effectively and efficiently.

This is the Christmas that we've awaited for 50 years.

For Christmas is measured not by what's beneath your tree but by what's inside your heart.

I do hereby proclaim December 17, 1989, as Wright Brothers Day.

Let's show our Thousand Points of Light.

I announce my intention to nominate Donald Robert Quartel, Jr., to be a Federal Maritime Commissioner.

The glad sound you hear is not only the bells of Christmas but also the bells of freedom.

This assistance to the three Andean nations is designed to help reduce the flow of illegal drugs into our country.

Today, on the threshold of this century's last decade, we can be proud that, with the approval of S. 804, we are renewing that noble commitment to improve environmental quality for all our people.

It is with great pleasure that I sign into law H.R. 3611, the 'International Narcotics Control Act of 1989.'

I am very gratified to be signing this legislation just 1 short year later.