Johnson Urged to Make ‘frank Declaration’ on U.S. Policy on Nasser

Senator Jacob K. Javits called on President Johnson for a full and frank declaration of U.S. policy on Egypt, in a statement is sued today. The New York Republican requested a disclosure of the Administration position before a Senate vote on the House-enacted prohibition of further food shipments to Egypt. The Senate is scheduled to consider the legislation this week.

Sen. Javits recognized Administration concern that Senate approval of the House ban would reduce the President’s freedom of action “in a delicate matter of foreign policy.” But he maintained that feeling in the country and the Congress “is running high” with respect to Egypt’s behavior on the international scene. He claimed that if the Senate is satisfied with Administration policy, “the necessity of a vote similar to the one taken by the House will be obviated.” But if the Senate is dissatisfied “it can express itself as did the House.”

“There is a point at which the policy of aid in respect to a particular nation can be inconsistent with the national interest,” the New York Senator declared. “The President, of course, should have the first opportunity to establish our foreign policy once that point is reached, but the Congress cannot avoid responsibility to act in the absence of Presidential declaration.”