critical areas as manpower planning, wage and price stability, and meeting the impacts of advancing technology.

INTERNATIONAL LABOR AFFAIRS

In the international area our dollar request for 1967 totals $1,230,000 and 85 positions. This includes an increase of two positions and $23,000 for research in the international trade union area and for the first time, the Department is seeking authorization for the utilization of excess foreign currencies to supplement its regular program. In those countries where excess currencies are available, activities of benefit to the Department and the United States will be developed.

OFFICE OF THE SOLICITOR

We are not proposing any staffing increases in the Solicitor's Office. In fact, the Office of the Solicitor will reduce its staff by 16 positions next year.

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY

For my own office, the estimate reflects a proposed transfer of 35 jobs and $371,000 from Bureau accounts to this account to decentralize personnel functions to the regions. There is an increase of two jobs and $29,000 to strengthen our efforts in the areas of policy planning and executive development and $59,000 to provide a full-scale health program for Department of Labor employees. Mandatory changes, nonrecurring rent, and savings in travel account for net reductions of $354,000 for a net decrease in the overall estimate of $266,000.

PRESIDENT'S COMMITTEE ON CONSUMER INTERESTS

The President is proposing a direct appropriation to be made to the Department of Labor for housekeeping purposes for the Committee on Consumer Interests. The program will continue to operate at the same level and carry out substantially the same program as it has conducted since its inception in 1964.

FEDERAL CONTRACT COMPLIANCE PROGRAM

This program was presented to the Congress for the first time in fiscal 1966 by virtue of the provisions of Executive Order 11246 of September 24, 1965. The Executive order delegates to me the responsibility for nondiscrimination in employment by Government contractors and subcontractors and in federally assisted construction projects. I am asking for an increase of five positions and $154,600 together with $114,000 to permit the full year cost of the activities financed for only a part of the year in 1966 to provide for an increase in all elements of the work by this Office beyond that which can be absorbed. This is partially offset by a nonrecurring item of $30,600. The net increase is $238,000.

Mr. Chairman, this concludes my statement. I will be glad to answer any questions you may have.

(The following tables were submitted for the record:)