If the problem is one of personnel and funds, again I fail to see why transfer to the Department of Justice improves the outlook over the long run for strengthening the Service. I have served for several years on the appropriations subcommittee which handles the requests of the Department of Justice. The failure of the Department in the past to press for the additional staff so obviously needed by its sorely pressed and overworked Civil Rights Division does not inspire confidence in its solicitude for the CRS.

Many factors militate against the transfer. I have yet to learn of the advantages that would offset them. If this transfer is permitted, it will set a precedent that we may rue in the future.

Senator HARRIS. Without objection, the record of the hearing on this subject will be kept open for 1 week for the filing of views by others.

This hearing is adjourned.

The committee is recessed subject to the call of the Chair.

Thank you all.

(Whereupon, at 12:40 o'clock p.m., the subcommittee was recessed, subject to the call of the Chair.)

EXHIBIT 7

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 21, 1966.

Hon. JOHN MCCLELLAN,

Government Operations Committee,

U.S. Senate,

Washington, D.C.:

We support President Lyndon Johnson's plan to transfer the Community Relations Service from the Department of Commerce to the Department of Justice. In these times there is great need for close coordination of the activities in the area of civil rights. We have explored the issues connected with the transfer and it is our considered judgment that the President's proposal will enable the Community Relations Service to function effectively and expeditiously. It is our understanding that the Director of the Service will have the rank of Assistant Attorney General under the new arrangement. We are further advised that the administration hopes to expand the staff and duties that the Service is called upon to perform. Therefore, we respectfully urge that your committee give a favorable report on Reorganization Plan No. 1. We request that this telegram be made a part of the hearing record on the reorganization plan.