871 
Organization. Through IMCO, the Safety of Life at Sea Convention 
is under continuing review and in addition to these regulations, IMCO 
makes recommendations as to safety procedures. The Coast Guard is 
also involved with the International Association of Lighthouse Au- 
thorities, the International Civil Aivation Organization, the Inter- 
national Ice Patrol, and the enforcement of international treaties and 
conventions concerning the fisheries. 
The third major responsibility of the Coast Guard, of course, is that 
of maintaining its personnel and facilities in a state of military re readi- 
ness as a member of the Armed Forces of the United States. 
Beyond this, the Coast Guard is deeply involved in marine science 
and technology, and would expect to play an expanded role as part 
of a total national program. It is prepared to play such a role by virtue 
of a large floating plant, support bases around our coasts, an effective 
marine communications network, a high level of expertise in marine 
matters, and a dedicated organization skilled in developing and execut- 
ing national programs. 
Thus, the Department would encourage the fullest possible involve- 
ment of the Coast Guard in marine science and technology matters. 
But moving 48,000 military and civilian personnel, along with large 
transportation and national defense programs, to a new ‘independent 
agency could seriously damage the Nation’s ability to carry out its 
transportation functions, and it would not hecessarily contribute to 
the achievement of our national goals in marine science. 
I have indicated that it would not be appropriate under present cir- 
cumstances to go into the specifics of alternative organizational ar- 
rangements for the conduct of marine science programs. I suggest, 
however, that the combination of scientific and operational programs 
mM one agency may impair the effective administration of either 
activity. 
Experience indicates that the two do not mix well. We think that 
major Government programs involving continuing services to the 
public should be kept under the Cabinet departments where they can 
be effectively coordinated under the general oversight of the President. 
In closing, I would like to affirm our support both of a strengthened 
Federal program aimed at developing the resources of the oceans, and 
of appropriate organizational measures designed to assure coordination 
and leadership of marine science activities. 
Some time ago our Department examined its position regarding ma- 
rine science, marine engineering, and marine resource development, as 
defined by section 8 of Public Law 89-454. In December 1967. the 
Secretary approved and published the following statement of policy: 
In order to respond to national goals in a manner commensurate with its 
eapacity and its missions, the Department of Transportation marine science pro- 
gram shall: 
Identify, support and, as necessary, plan and implement policies and programs 
in furtherance of the Department’s transportation and marine science 
responsibilities. 
Press for the development within the Department of an improved research and 
development capability in the marine sciences, supported by a permanent staff 
of scientific and technical personnel having the highest possible level of pro- 
fessional competence and experience. 
Accept responsibility to provide services in support of validated marine science 
projects within its capabilities. 
