PHILIPPINE ISLANDS

Under the guidance of Governor General Stimson the economic and political conditions of the Philippine Islands have been raised to a standard never before surpassed.  The cooperation between his administration and the people of the islands is complete and harmonious.  It would be an advantage if relief from double taxation could be granted by the Congress to our citizens doing business in the islands.

PORTO RICO

Due to the terrific storm that swept Porto Rico last September, the people of that island suffered large losses.  The Red Cross and the War Department went to their rescue.  The property loss is being, retrieved.  Sugar, tobacco, citrus fruit, and coffee, all suffered damage.  The first three can largely look after themselves.  The coffee growers will need some assistance, which should be extended strictly on a business basis, and only after most careful investigation.  The people of Porto Rico are not asking for charity.

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

It is desirable that all the legal activities of the Government be consolidated under the supervision of the Attorney General.  In 1870 it was felt necessary to create the Department of Justice for this purpose.  During the intervening period, either through legislation creating law officers or departmental action, additional legal positions not under the supervision of the Attorney General have been provided until there are now over 900.  Such a condition is as harmful to the interest of the Government now as it was in 1870, and should be corrected by appropriate legislation.

SPECIAL GOVERNMENT COUNSEL

In order to prosecute the oil cases, I suggested and the Congress enacted a law providing for the appointment of two special counsel.  They have pursued their work with signal ability, recovering all the leased lands besides nearly $30,000,000 in money, and nearly $17,000,000 in other property.  They find themselves hampered by a statute, which the Attorney General construes as applying to them, prohibiting their appearing for private clients before any department.  For this reason, one has been compelled to resign.  No good result is secured by the application of this rule to these counsel, and as Mr. Roberts has consented to take reappointment if the rule is abrogated I recommend the passage of an amendment to the law creating their office exempting them from the general rule against taking other cases involving the Government.

PROHIBITION