THE NATIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
for transfer at cost to private individuals and corporations of the
several regions is recommended.
Absorption by the government of the difference between the war
cost and present value, as a war loss, is recommended.
Freedom from regulation as to routes and rates is recommended.
Restriction for a period of years upon transfer to a foreign flag
of steel vessels over 6,000 tons deadweight purchased from the
government is recommended.
Preference for American underwriters and use of the under-
writing market of the world for insurance not covered by American
underwriters, without intervention by government insurance, are
recommended.
Encouragement of an American classification society is recom-
mended.
A general declaration by Congress of a policy to give aid toward
the maintenance of a privately owned and operated American mer-
chant marine is recommended.
Continuance of operation of the competent American ship-
building yards, on private account both as to yards and the vessels
they construct, is recommended. (Referendum No. 29, submitted
Ocober 31, 1919.)
MERCHANT MARINE LEGISLATION
A policy regarding merchant vessels under the American flag
has not yet been declared by Congress. The policy which will be
adopted will in large measure determine the permanence of an
adequate American merchant marine, adapted in types of vessels,
equipment, and tonnage to national requirements and to the service
of the different parts of the country. Legislation has made progress
in Congress but must still pass through several legislative stages
before enactment. Congress is earnestly requested to expedite its
consideration of this legislation, which exerts influence upon the
interests of all parts of the country, whether inland or at seaboard,
and is asked to include the important principles for which the
Chamber has been committed through the deliberative processes of
its referendum procedure.
In the field of marine insurance the Annual Meeting has received
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