The tiebreaker. Senator Clifford Case (R.. N. J.), said the cut actually represented a 'victory of sorts for the hawks."
“There were people who wanted to cut more,” Mr. Case said.
“I think this represented a moderate reaction to the feeling in the country, that were trying to do too much around the world,” Mr. Case said.
The percentage cut will force the pentagon to decide where to make the reductions in the list of foreign beneficiaries.
The only exceptions will be a number of specific reductions made earlier by the committee.
At the state Department, the press officer, Robert J. McCloskey. said the administration should not have its hands Lied by congressionally imposed ceilings on aid funds or on the number of American officials in Cambodia.
Tie was reacting to the committee vote Wednesday imposing a $250 miliion limit on military and economic aid to Cambodia or this fiscal year.
The committee also voted to limit the American civilian and military personnel in Cambodia to 200.
Referring to a letter sent Wednesday to the Committee by the acting Secretary of state. John Irwin. Mr. McCloskey said the administration feels the minimum amount of aid necessary is $330 million.
This figure, Mr. McCloskey said, “is essential to help Cambodia consolidate its independence."
Mr. McCloskey said Mr. Irwin pointed out in his letter that the president must retain as well his authority to provide more aid if an emergency arises.
The pentagon had asked for the authorization of funds for military aid to a total of 46 nations.
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