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SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION 536 
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MADE BY BAKER-VAWTER CO.
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appropriations therefor to be disbursed by the Disbursing Officer of the Institution. It would, however, probably give rise to misunderstandings and difficulties in its practical administration. 

The Secretary added that he was not asking any action on the part of the Board, but thought that the matter should be brought to its attention.

WITHDRAWAL OF THE PRIVILEGES OF THE SENATE FLOOR FROM THE SECRETARY

The Secretary brought to the Board's attention Senate Resolution 161, introduced for Senator McCormick, a Regent of the Institution, amending Standing Rule XXXIII of the Senate, withdrawing from the privileges of the floor of the Senate, among others, the Secretary of the Institution; and he submitted the following statement:

The Smithsonian Institution is a Government establishment organized "for the increase and diffusion of knowledge". It is an official establishment dealing with science and the arts. Its executive governing Board of Regents includes the President of the United States Senate and three Senators. 

Its executive officer and director elected by the Board of Regents, is the Secretary who at times needs to consult with the Senate members of the Board.

The privileges of the floor of the Senate, granted in 1884 to the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, is not only of service but it is a recognition by the legislative branch of the Government of an establishment that is closely related to the Congress by having the President of the Senate, three Senators, and three Representatives, active members if its governing Board of fourteen Regents. 

The withdrawal of the "privilege of the floor of the Senate" from the Secretary of the Smithsonian would be a blow to the prestige of the Institution, as it would be taken as a vote of lack of confidence on the part of the Senate.

During the past fourteen years the present Secretary has not been on the floor of the Senate more than an average of six times in any one year. 
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