The provisions of H. R. 4294 regarding import quotas on crude petroleum and residual fuel oil, and additional duties on lead and zinc, would restrict imports and would, thereby, reduce the foreign trade of the United States at a time when the expansion of that trade is of the greatest importance.

In any event, provisions with respect to individual commodities seem out of place in a general law providing for the negotiation of trade agreements.

In conclusion, may I say, Mr. Chairman:

1. The trade agreement with Cuba is a good example of the value of the Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act. This has been amply den onstrated by the increase in the volume of trade between the two countries since 1934.

2. The agreement with Cuba is also a good example of increased trade resulting from concessions made by both nations. The agree ment has not been a one-way street.

3. Increased exports to Cuba and to other nations since 1934 have benefited the producers of one or more products in every section of the United States.

4. H. R. 4294, if enacted, would hinder the development of the for eign trade of the United States instead of encouraging the expansion needed to maintain a high level of economic activity in this country 5. Further increases in trade with Cuba and with other countries would be of obvious and lasting benefit to the United States by increasing both the supply of needed imports, and the ability of people in other countries to purchase our exports, thus helping to improve standards of living and combat communism throughout the free world.

In view of these facts, the Council strongly recommends the extension of the Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act, eliminating the peril point and escape-clause provisions, so that it will further encourage the development of foreign trade.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.

The CHAIRMAN. We thank you very much.

Are there any questions?

We thank you for your appearance and the information you have given the committee.

(The tables referred to follow :)

ITED STATES TRADE WITH CUBA-REPRINT OF SELECTED MATERIAL FROM SUGAR FACTS AND FIGURES, 1952

By the United States Cuban Sugar Council, Washington, D. C.

BLE 24.—Value of visible Cuban imports from and exports to the United States and all countries, 1902 to 19511

Visible imports and exports do not include numerous items such as payment for ocean freight and insure, tourists' expenditures, and returns on American investments in Cuba.

These figures differ from U. S. Government data covering the same years. See tables 26 and 27. Preliminary.

ource: Cuba Sugar Yearbook.

Exclusive of commodities in "special category" for which data are withheld by the Government for security reasons.

Source: U. 8. Department of Commerce.