have been fairly rigorous, because of the use of the 
wage subsidy index system (which ties subsidizable 
U.S. wage expenses to a general U.S. wage index) 
and because of successful efforts to reduce total 
manning levels on U.S.-subsidized vessels. 
In addition to the cost control expected to be 
achieved through the elimination of certain subsi- 
dizable expenses a thorough reassessment of the 
entire ODS program has been initiated recently by 
the Maritime Administration in an effort to identify 
changes which might enhance the efficiency of the 
ODS fleet and thereby reduce future subsidy de- 
pendence. Essentially, this study will address the 
possible productivity benefits to be derived from 
allowing subsidy recipients greater operating flexibil- 
ity. A principal focus of this study will be an exami- 
nation of the appropriateness of the essential trade 
route concept in light of the impediments it imposes 
on operating flexibility. 
These then are some of the major specific issues 
which are likely to be of prominent concern over the 
next few years with regard to the promotion of U.S. 
shipping and shipbuilding. In addition, of course, 
many of the infrastructure and regulatory issues dis- 
cussed in the previous sections will also include im- 
portant promotional considerations. As a conse- 
quence, it can be expected that careful attention will 
also be directed to many of these issues with respect 
to their potential effect on the future of the U.S. 
merchant marine. 
Vv—49 
