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COMMISIONER: We do have some plans. We recognize the problem not only on the Navajo Reservation, but also on other Reservations. It is a very real problem and is very difficult to handle. It cannot be handled through hospitalization alone. Whenever you have the kind of poverty and living conditions that we have had in times past throughout the Navajo Reservation, you are apt to have a high rate of TB. Hospital construction is bound to be limited for some time to come because of the defense situation. I have asked that a survey be made of facilities available in various hospitals so that a larger number of cases can be taken care of. There are over 400 beds which we know we can use, and as soon as we can enter into contract for them, we will. We are asking for money in our budget request which goes in September 15. We are also hoping to get funds to help train some Indian people who can help in the educational problem affecting sanitation, which is basic in attacking this problem. There are some other things we are planning to do also. For instance, BCG as a means of prevention.

QUESTION: Perhaps you can clarify why the Indian Office is opening hospitals to white patients.

COMMISIONER: Those hospitals have been built at great cost, and their facilities must be utilized to the fullest extent possible. Therefore, where there are not enough Indian patients, white should be allowed admittance. We are also moving in the other direction: we are making arrangements for Indian patients to be taken into non-Indian hospitals.

QUESTION: Regarding the rehabilitation program?

COMMISIONER: Along about 1936 there were begun certain rehabilitation programs, of which both the Bureau and the Indians should be proud. As you travel about you can see where a great deal of progress has been made. It can't happen over-night. It is a combination of some of the things we have mentioned involving the question of training for placement of those people interested in jobs, rather than operating a piece of land. In some ways good progress is being made, but you will never find one thing that will do the job. It will never be done by the Indian Service alone. It can only be done in cooperation with Indians and others interested.

QUESTION: About withdrawing Federal control over the Indians?

COMMISIONER: I am willing to turn you loose tomorrow if you want to be turned loose and you can get Congress to enact the necessary legislation. There are two basic items for which the Government is responsible. There are certain restrictions on trust property, and there is a prohibition against liquor. On the first one there is some disagreement

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