Congressional Leaders on Middle East

Following a briefing of House members on the progress of Secretary of State James Baker’s diplomatic trips to the Middle East, by James Baker, Representative Thomas Foley, D-Washington, Speaker of The House, discussed the prospects for peace in the Middle East with reporters outside the White House. He concurred with the feeling of optimism expressed by President George H. W. Bush that Secretary of State Baker’s diplomatic visits to the Middle East may produce results in the hostile region. Rep. Foley also discussed the upcoming “Brady bill” on handgun control and the president’s crime bill. He said he had no doubts about the ability of Vice President Quayle to lead the country. Representative Patrick Leahy, D-Vermont, stated that he also had faith in Vice President Quayle’s abilities and said he wished people would “lay off” the vice president. He discussed the progress of the “Brady bill” and expressed caution over the extension of agricultural credits to the Soviet Union. close