National Affairs: Curtail Lobbies?

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Another contemplated revision of the Congressional rules is the abolition of the courtesy rule, whereby an ex-member of the House or Senate is privileged to speak upon the floor. This privilege has often been abused for the purpose of conducting elaborate lobbies in favor of special legislation. Mr. Mondell, late of the House, and Mr. Lenroot of the Senate have both expressed the opinion that lobbying by ex-members is a growing evil to which Congress must sooner or later address itself, or suffer undue influence at the hands of irresponsible and special interests.