This is a critical period in our history and any measure which will adversely affect our national unity will render a distinct disservice not only to this Nation but to the world.

I feel so strongly about the labor bill which the Senate will vote on this afternoon that I wish to reaffirm my sincere belief that it will do serious harm to our country.

Many of the provisions of the enclosed Conventions and Recommendations fall short of standards already in effect in the American merchant marine.

I commend you and your associates who have fought so earnestly against this dangerous legislation.

I request advice and consent to ratification of Convention (No. 72) concerning vacation holidays with pay for seafarers only in the event that the conditions explained in the accompanying report of the Secretary of State have been met.

In view of certain objections thereto, as explained more fully in the enclosed report and communications, I do not request at this time advice and consent to ratification of Convention (No. 71) concerning seafarers' pensions.

Cooperation cannot be achieved by force of law.

This bill would go far toward weakening our trade union movement.

I cannot emphasize too strongly the transcendent importance of the United States in the world today as a force for freedom and peace.

I have concluded that this bill would prove to be unworkable.

In summary, I find that the so-called 'emergency procedure' would be ineffective.

I find that this bill is completely contrary to that national policy of economic freedom.

It would involve the Government in the free processes of our economic system to a degree unprecedented in peacetime.

I return herewith, without my approval, H.R. 3020, the 'Labor Management Relations Act, 1947.'

It has long been my view that the inhabitants of Guam and Samoa should enjoy those fundamental human rights and that democratic form of government which are the rich heritage of the people of the United States.

I hope that the Congress will approve legislation for the purposes indicated in the enclosed report and that such legislation will provide for the full enjoyment of civil rights and for the greatest practicable measure of self government.

We must not let friendly nations go by default.

Salary limitations prevent the Government, in many instances, from securing the kind of executives required to manage its vital activities.