THE MEMBERS of this Commission, representing management,
labor and the public, are embarking upon an effort that will have rar-reaching
and lasting consequences for the railroad industry. The appointment of
this Commission represents a major and constructive innovation that will
prove to be a significant achievement in the progress of labor-management
relations toward greater maturity and stability. In resolving this
problem in a manner fair to the men, helpful to the industry, and in the
best interests of our country, the members of this Commission will provide
service of incalculable value.
Representatives of the railroads and
railway labor organizations concerned have, in a letter to me, jointly
recommended that Secretary of Labor James P. Mitchell serve as chairman
of the Commission. I am particlarly pleased that Secretary
Mitchell has agreed to provide this additional and significant service
to our Nation in the cause of industrial peace.
Refer: President Kennedy's Statement upon receiving the Report of The Presidential Railroad Commission.