Where Congress Stands

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Congress was in virtual recess. The House met only every third day; the Senate dawdled over the manpower bill. But every Congressman knew that, before spring was over, he would have to face some crucial legislative problems.

How does Congress stand on the big issues? No one knows for certain, but last week Congressional sentiment stacked up approximately like this:

¶ Dumbarton Oaks: Senate ratification by more "than the necessary two-thirds majority seemed certain, with possibly only 15 to 20 votes against it.

¶ Bretton Woods monetary agreement: the proposed International Bank for Reconstruction and Development would easily win approval, but the International Monetary Fund (for currency stabilization) probably would not. This would, in effect, kill the whole proposal (TIME, March 26).

¶ Reciprocal trade: the outlook was for a two-year extension, with Congress approving no further reduction of U.S. tariff rates.

¶ International air policy: although Congress is still up in the air, best indication is that the "chosen instrument" plan (see AIR) would be rejected.

¶ Universal military service: almost sure to be killed in committee.

¶ Repeal of the Johnson Act: this law, which forbids private loans to foreign governments that are in default on their old debts was sure to be repealed.