Ask the Scholar

Document scope · 1 page
doc
Scholar
Ask about this object, its catalog metadata, its source description, or the page inventory. For page-specific OCR and visual context, open one of the page chats.

Source Description

This file includes a copy of the March 1975 General Accounting Office report "Proposals to Strengthen the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966.".

Scholar Source Context

Document identity
localId
4520785
label
President - Gifts Policies (1)
core
doc
dtoType
document
pageCount
1
Source metadata
id
4520785
contentType
document
title
President - Gifts Policies (1)
description
This file includes a copy of the March 1975 General Accounting Office report "Proposals to Strengthen the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966.".
collections
Philip W. Buchen Files
Philip Buchen's General Subject Files
subjects
General Accounting Office. (1921 - 07/07/2004)
Civil service
Law and legislation
Gifts
International relations
imageCount
1
hasImages
yes
source
import
hasTranscription
no
Source extras
naId
4520785
coverageEndDate
logicalDate
1976-09-01
month
9
year
1976
coverageStartDate
logicalDate
1974-10-01
month
10
year
1974
levelOfDescription
fileUnit
recordType
description
ocrSource
nara-archive
Single page context
seq
1
pageIndex
0
type
document
mediaId
f0a4fcfa3007f569
ocrText
The original documents are located in Box 46, folder "President - Gifts Policies (1)" of the Philip Buchen Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library. Copyright Notice The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald R. Ford donated to the United States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections. Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library. Joreign Gift 22 Foreign Relations Revised as of January 1, 1972 code fed federal regulations OF NATIONAL ARCHIVES THE A - STATES UNITED 3HL 1934 LIDERAL GERALD = FORD Chapter I-Department of Store $ 2.1 SUBCHAPTER M-INTERNATIONAL TRAFFIC IN ARMS 121 Arms, ammunition, and implements of war. 122 Registration. 123 Licenses for unclassified arms, ammunition, and implements of war. or national 124 Manufacturing license and technical assistance agreements. 125 Unclassified technical data and classified information (data and equipment). 126 Prohibited shipments, temporary suspension or modification of regulations, LTURAL exemptions, and relation to other provisions of law. 127 Violations and penalties. 128 Educational Administrative procedures. SUBCHAPTER N-MISCELLANEOUS 131 Certificates of authentication. 132 Books, maps, newspapers, etc. THEIR SUBCHAPTER O-CIVIL RIGHTS 141 Nondiscrimination in federally-assisted programs of the Department of State-effectuation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. SUBCHAPTER A-GENERAL PART 1-INSIGNIA OF RANK shall be as follows: On a white rectangu- lar field a blue disk bearing the official Sec. 1.1 Office of the Secretary of State. coat of arms of the United States adopt- 1.2 Office of the Under Secretary of State. ed by act of June 20, 1782, in proper colors. In each of the four corners a AUTHORITY: The provisions of this Part 1 issued under sec. 4, 63 Stat. 111, as amended; five-pointed star with one point upward. 22 U.S.C. 2658. The colors and automobile flag to be the same design, adding a blue fringe. SOURCE: The provisions of this Part 1 ap- pear at 22 F.R. 10788, Dec. 27, 1957, unless For the colors a cord and tassel of white otherwise noted. and blue to be added. The sizes to be in accordance with military and naval § 1.1 Office of the Secretary of State. customs. The official flag indicative of the office of Secretary of State shall be as follows: PART 2-PROTECTION OF FOREIGN On a blue rectangular field a white disk DIGNITARIES AND OTHER OFFICIAL bearing the official coat of arms of the PERSONNEL United States adopted by the act of June 20, 1782, in proper colors. In each of the § 2.1 Designation of personnel to carry four corners a white five-pointed star firearms and exercise appropriate with one point upward. The colors and power of arrest. automobile flag to be the same design, The Deputy Assistant Secretary of adding a white fringe. For the colors a State for Security is authorized to desig- cord and tassel of blue and white to be nate certain employees of the Depart- added. The sizes to be in accordance with military and naval customs. ment of State and the Foreign Service; as well as employees of other departments § 1.2 Office of the Under Secretary of other and agencies detailed to and under the Ameri- State. supervision and control of the Depart- The official flag indicative of the of- ment of State, as Security Officers as fice of the Under Secretary of State follows. 5 $ 3.1 tle 22-Foreign Relations (a) Persons so designate shall be au- § 3.2 Application of this part. family thorized to carry firea ns when engaged This part applies to all persons occupy- then the in the performance di the duties pre- ing an office or a position in the Execu- which scribed in section (1) OF Act of June tive, Legislative and Judicial branches of serving. 28, 1955, 69 Stat. 188, as amended. No the Government of the United States. (i) T person shall be so designated unless he priate a has either qualified in the use of firearms § 3.3 Definitions. person C in accordance with standards established As used in this part- by such by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of (a) The term "person" includes every required State for Security, or in accordance with person who occupies an office or a posi- (1) T standards established by the department tion in the Government of the United means or agency from which he is detailed. States, its territories and possessions, the Departn (b) Persons so designated shall also Canal Zone Government, and the Gov- § 3.4 I be authorized, when engaged in the per- ernment of the District of Columbia, or dep formance of duties prescribed in section is a member of the Armed Forces of the thry (1) of the Act of June 28, 1955, 69 Stat. United States, or a member of the family Any g 188, as amended, to arrest without war- and household of any such person. For the Dep rant and deliver into custody any person the purpose of this part, "member of the date of family and household" means a relative violating the provisions of Section 111 applicat by blood, marriage or adoption who is a or 112 of Title 18, United States Code, resident of the household. subseque in their presence or if they have reason- Protocol (b) The term "foreign government" able grounds to believe that the person released includes every foreign government and to the d to be arrested has committed or is com- every official, agent, or representative Such do mitting such felony. thereof. the app (Sec. 4, 63 Stat. 111, as amended, sec. 1, 69 (c) The term "gift" includes any ration S Stat. 188; 22 U.S.C. 2658, 2666) [Dept. Reg. present or thing, other than a decora- will nor 108.514, 29 F.R. 15571, Nov. 20, 1964] tion, tendered by or received from a special foreign government. volved, PART 3-ACCEPTANCE OF GIFTS AND (d) The term "decoration" includes Protocol DECORATIONS FROM FOREIGN any order, device, medal, badge, insig- item. Ai GOVERNMENTS nia, or emblem tendered by or received proved from a foreign government. Sec. erty of (e) The term "gift of minimal value" 3.1 Purpose. used or includes any present or other thing, 3.2 Application of this part. the prov 3.3 Definitions. other than a decoration, which has a re- 3.4 Release of gifts and decorations on tail value not in excess of $50 in the § 3.5 deposit in the Department of State United States. any through October 14, 1966. (f) The term "outstanding or unusu- (a) G 3.5 Gifts and decorations received by any ally meritorious performance" includes person after October 14, 1968. request 3.6 Use or disposal of gifts and decorations performance of duty by a person deter- der of a which become the property of the mined by the appropriate agency to have (b) G United States. contributed to an unusually significant to indiv 3.7 Revocation of previous regulations. degree to the furtherance of good rela- favors, AUTHORITY: The provisions of this Part 3 tions between the United States and other to issued under sec. 4, 63 Stat. 111, as amended, the foreign government tendering the tions, ai sec. 7, 80 Stat. 952; 22 U.S.C. 2658, 2626. E.O. decoration, received 11320, 31 F.R. 15789; 3 CFR 1966-1970, page tesy fro 659. (g) The term "special or unusual cir- accepted cumstances" includes any circumstances SOURCE: The provisions of this Part 3 con- burden tained in Dept. Reg. 108.556, 32 F.R. 6569, which would appear to make it improper establisl Apr. 28, 1967, unless otherwise noted. for the donee to receive a gift or decora- as defin tion, and also includes, in some in- (c) G § 3.1 Purpose. stances, the very nature of the gift Where a The purpose of this part is to estab- itself. is tende hish uniform basic standards for the (h) The term "appropriate agency" that it acceptance of gifts and decorations from means the department, agency, office, or United foreign governments by U.S. Government other entity in which a person is em- thereof officers and employees, including mem- ployed or enlisted, or to which he has however bers of the armed forces, and members been appointed or elected. If the donee be likely of their families. is not so serving, but is a member of the ment to 6 & FORD GERALD LIBRARY Chapter I-Department of State $3.6 family and household of such a person, affect the foreign relations of the United then the "appropriate agency" is that in States, the gift may be accepted and shall ccupy- which the head of the household is be deposited with the Chief of Protocol Execu- serving. for disposal in accordance with the pro- of (i) The term "approval by the appro- visions of § 3.6. priate agency" includes approval by such (d) Decorations. Decorations re- person or persons as are duly authorized ceived which have been tendered in by such agency to give the approval recognition of active field service in con- required by these regulations. nection with combat operations, or which every (j) The term "Chief of Protocol" have been awarded for outstanding or posi- means the Chief of Protocol of the United unusually meritorious performance, may Department of State. be accepted and worn by the donee with the Gov- § 3.4 Release of gifts and decorations on (1) the approval by the appropriate or deposit in the Department of State agency and (2) the concurrence of the of the through October 14, 1966. Chief of Protocol. Within the Depart- ment of State, the decision as to whether family Any gift or decoration on deposit with a decoration has been awarded for out- For the Department of State on the effective the standing or unusually meritorious per- of date of this part shall, following written formance will be the responsibility of the relative application to the Chief of Protocol and supervising Assistant Secretary of State who is a subsequent approval by the Chief of or comparable officer for the person in- Protocol and the appropriate agency. be nment" volved. In the absence of approval and released through the appropriate agency and concurrence under this paragraph, the to the donee or his legal representative. entative decoration shall become the property of Such donee may also, if authorized by the United States and shall be deposited the appropriate agency, wear any deco- by the donee with the Chief of Protocol es any ration so released. Approval for release for use or disposal in accordance with decora- will normally be given unless, from the the provisions of § 3.6. Nothwithstanding from a special or unusual circumstances in- the foregoing, decorations tendered to volved, it would appear to the Chief of U.S. military personnel for service in ncludes Protocol to be improper to release the insig- Viet-Nam may be accepted and worn as item. Any gifts or decorations not ap- received provided by the Act of October 19, 1965, proved for release will become the prop- Public Law 89-257, 79 Stat. 982. erty of the U.S. Government and will be I value" used or disposed of in accordance with § 3.6 Use or disposal of gifts and deco- thing, the provisions of § 3.6. rations which become the property of as a re- the United States. in the § 3.5 Gifts and decorations received by any person after October 14, 1966. Any gift or decoration which becomes the property of the United States under unusu- (a) General policy. No person shall this part may be retained for official use includes request or otherwise encourage the ten- by the appropriate agency with the ap- a deter- der of a gift or decoration. proval of the Chief of Protocol. Gifts to have (b) Gifts of minimal value. Subject and deocrations not so retained shall be nificant to indivdual agency regulations, table forwarded to the General Services Ad- od rela- favors, mementos, remembrances, or ministration by the Chief of Protocol for tes and other tokens bestowed at official func- transfer, donation, or other disposal in ing the tions, and other gifts of minimal value accordance with such instruction as may received as souvenirs or marks of cour- be furnished by that officer. In the ab- sual cir- tesy from a foreign government may be sence of such instructions, such property accepted and retained by the donee. The nstances will be transferred or disposed of by the burden of proof is upon the donee to General Services Administration in ac- mproper establish that the gift is of minimal value cordance with the provisions of the Fed- decora- as defined by this part. eral Property and Administrative Serv- ome in- (c) Gifts of more than minimal value. ices Act of 1949, 63 Stat. 377, as amended, the gift Where a gift of more than minimal value and the Federal Property Management is tendered, the donor should be advised Regulations (41 CFR Ch. 101, Subchapter FORD agency" that it is contrary to the policy of the H). Standard Form 120, Report of Ex- office, or United States for persons in the service cess Personal Property, and Standard 2 is em- thereof to accept substantial gifts. If, Form 120A, Continuation Sheet, shall be I he has however, the refusal of such a gift would used in reporting such property, and the ne dcnee be likely to cause offense or embarrass- Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of er of the ment to the donor, or would adversely 1966 shall be cited on the reporting docu- 7 § 3.7 Title 22-Foreign Relations ment. Such reports shall be submitted to several diplomatic missions in Washing- sec. 501, 65 S General Services Administration, Region ton in giving notification of foreign offi- 483a, 5 U.S.C 3, Attention: Property Management and cial status to the Secretary of State. 3 CFR, 1949- Disposal Service. Seventh and D Streets SOURCE: T SW., Washington, D.C. 20407. § 4.4 Form required in duplicate. tained in D The form is to be submitted to the May 11, 1968 § 3.7 Revocation of previous regula- tions. Secretary of State in duplicate. § 5.1 Intry The regulations in this part shall su- § 4.5 Time limit for the submission of The secti persede all regulations heretofore in the form. pursuant to effect concerning the acceptance of gifts (a) The form is to be submitted within tive Proced and decorations from foreign govern- 30 days after the arrival of the foreign July 4, 1967 ments to persons in the service of the official in the United States or after a § 5.2 Cent United States or to members of their change from a nonofficial to an official establis families. status. cers fr (b) If the official status claimed is not whereb PART 4--NOTIFICATION OF FOREIGN recognized by the Secretary of State, the format OFFICIAL STATUS person submitting the form must regis- quest, 4 Sec. ter within another 30 days under the ments 4.1 Persons required to give notification. requirements of the Alien Registration method 4.2 Persons exempted from the requirement Act. channe to give notification. 4.3 Form to be used in giving notification. § 4.6 Termination of official status and (a) The 4.4 Form required in duplicate. departure from the United States. central and 4.5 Time limit for the submission of the partment of (a) The diplomatic missions in Wash- form. ice posts an ington should notify the Secretary of 4.6 Termination of official status and depar- (1) The $ State of the termination of service of all ture from the United States. Department officials and employees, giving the dates lic Notice N AUTHORITY: The provisions of this Part 4 of such termination of service, the dates issued under sec. 10, 56 Stat. 257, sec. 4, 63 1967. and ports of their departure from the Stat. 111, as amended; 22 U.S.C. 620, 2658. (2) The United States, or their addresses if they the Departi SOURCE: The provisions of this Part 4 ap- are remaining in the United States. Public Not pear at 22 F.R. 10788, Dec. 27, 1957, unless (b) Aliens remaining in the United March 3, 11 otherwise noted. States after terminating their status as (3) The 1 § 4.1 Persons required to give notifica- officials or employees are required to be the Depart tion. registered and finger-printed within 30 Public Not days thereafter under sections 37(a), All persons who are entitled to exemp- June 22, 19 34(a) and 32(c) of the Alien Registra- tion from the registration and finger- (b) As ul tion Act (54 Stat. 674, 675; 8 U.S.C. 453, printing requirements of the Alien Reg- the term "D 455, 458). istration Act of 1940 (54 Stat. 670), as all offices 3 amended, are required to give notifi- Washington PART 5-ORGANIZATION cation to the Secretary of State of their the United Sec. presence in the United States. Such 5.1 Introduction. persons comprise foreign government 5.2 Central and field organization, estab- officials, members of their families (in- lished places at which, the officers from cluding relatives by blood or marriage whom, and the methods whereby the Subji regularly residing in or forming a part of public may secure information, make their household), and their employees submittals, or request, or obtain de- Appointment cisions; and statements of the general Officers. and attendants. course and method by which its func- Authentication § 4.2 Persons exempted from the re- tions are channeled and determined. Claims and stold quirement to give notification. 5.3 Rules of procedure, description of forms available or the places at which forms International el Ambassadors and ministers, and mem- may be obtained, and instructions as tural exchange bers of their missions named in the International 4 to the scope and content of all papers, Diplomatic List issued monthly by the reports, or examinations. Department of State, are exempted from 5.4 Substantive rules of general applica- Nationality and the requirement to give notification to bility adopted as authorized by law, the Secretary of State under this part. and statements of general policy or Protection and interpretation of general applicability 20115, § 4.3 Form to be used in giving notifica- formulated and adopted by the other concular Visa issuance tion. agency. A Notification of Status with a Foreign AUTHORITY: The provisions of this Part 5 Government form is to be used by the issued under sec. 4, 63 Stat. 111, as amended, 8 Friday 10/4/74 Mft 4:00 Brenda: Mr. Buchen said to tell you that downstream gifts for superior to underling are O.K. but upstream or soliciting for gifts and receipt of them are now prohibited by the regulations. Eva LIBRARY GERALD R. FORD October 7. 1974 MEMORANDUM FOR: Res Sceeten FROM: Phil Bushon SUBJECT: Foreign Gifts and Decorations to the First Family In response to your memorandum to me of September 20, 1 am enclosing a memorandum on the subject dated October 3, 1974, from Ken Lacares. 1 suggest If you have say further questions, kindly contact Ken Lanares on extension 6297. ec: Ken Lasares PWB:ed LIBRARY FORD 's DERALT THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON November 5, 1974 MEMORANDUM FOR: PHIL BUCHEN FROM: KEN LAZARUS Rd SUBJECT: Receipt of Foreign Gifts Attached are proposed procedures and supporting documents for the processing of foreign gifts which are received by members of the First Family (Tab A). These procedures have been tentatively cleared by the Chief of Protocol, GSA and the White House Gift Unit. Implementation of these procedures would ensure compliance with the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966 and regulations issued pursuant thereto. Also attached is an inventory of gifts which have been received by the First Family from representatives of foreign governments since August 9 (Tab B). Tab C contains a draft press release announcing the new procedures controlling the receipt and use of gifts from representatives of foreign governments with references to additional studies under way concerning the subjects of foreign gift-giving and domestic gifts. With respect to gifts given by the United States, Henry Catto has made known his opinion that such practices should be discontinued and announced along with the new procedures governing the receipt of foreign gifts. While my visceral reaction is that such a policy would have a salutary effect, I do not believe that we have adequate information at hand to accurately gauge the potential impact of such a policy. Moreover, press pressures do not require that we peel that onion just now. Don Lowitz shares my thinking in this regard. Tab D contains a draft memorandum from Don Rumsfeld to the heads of Departments and agencies calling for the establishment of FORD & GERALD CIBRARY 2 appropriate procedures governing the receipt and use of gifts to Federal employees from representatives of foreign governments. Finally, Tab E contains a draft memorandum from Philip Buchen to all employees of the Executive Office of the President. After you and Don Rumsfeld have a chance to review these materials, Don Lowitz and I can work up a final package reflecting your views. cc: Phil Areeda Bill Casselman Don Rumsfeld Don Lowitz FORD TAB A DRAFT Procedures for the Processing of Gifts Subject to the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966, and other Gifts from Foreign Sources. 1. All gifts received by or on behalf of the President and his family are to be delivered to the White House Mail Room or the Gift Unit upon receipt. 2. The White House Mail Room will: (a) Assign identity numbers to each item; (b) For each gift from a foreign source, prepare a pink card in sextuplicate, containing all pertinent information about the gift; (c) Affix identity number to gift item or its container, and original and all copies of the pink card; (d) Send gift, along with original and three copies of the pink card, to the Gift Unit; and (e) Retain three copies of the pink card for appropriate filing in the Mail Room. 3. Gifts received directly by the Gift Unit will be logged in coordination with the Mail Room, i. e., identity number assigned by the Mail Room, two copies for the Mail Room files, etc. 4. Gift Unit will segregate cards and gifts into the following categories: (a) Gifts clearly worth less than $50.00 (Smithsonian will make available appraisers where necessary to assist in this determination); (b) Gifts over $50.00; (c) Gifts of jewelry and other items of great value, requiring special handling for safekeeping; (d) Gifts of consumables and perishables. 2 Following this initial segregation, the Gift Unit will arrange for photographing all gifts falling into categories 4(b) and (c). 5. After segregation, the Gift Unit will send a copy of each pink card to the Chief of Protocol for review prior to the inspection required in 6(b), infra. 6 a. When immediate use of a gift is anticipated at the time of its receipt in the Gift Unit, the Gift Unit will prepare a request for that use which will be promptly sent to the Chief of Protocol (along with a copy of the pink card) for his approval. When there is insufficient time to request such approval in writing, telephonic approval may be sought from the Office of the Chief of Protocol. However, this is to be followed by a written request and response approving this use. As soon as practicable, the gift shall be photographed and a copy sent to the Office of the Chief of Protocol. These gifts shall be available for inspection by the Chief of Protocol or his designee. Once this particular official use has ceased, the Gift Unit shall notify the Office of the Chief of Protocol in order that the normal procedures for reporting the item to GSA can be completed (see 6b, infra). b. Every two weeks the Chief of Protocol or his designee will visit the Gift Unit to inspect all gifts from foreign sources (and the pink cards for these gifts) received since the last inspection (with exception for items described in 4(d), supra, for which the Gift Unit shall be given authority to dispose of on receipt (see Attachment A)). The Chief of Protocol or his designee will examine the gift and classification tentatively made by the Gift Unit and will determine and/or concur with the appropriate classification as to statutory or non-statutory gift, indicate such on the pink card, and initial and date all pink cards for gifts from foreign sources. 7. The Gift Unit will prepare a declaration card (furnished by the Chief of Protocol) on all items determined to fall under the Act and forward the card, with a photograph of the gift attached, to the Chief of Protocol within forty-eight (48) hours after inspection. 3 8. The Chief of Protocol will then prepare a Form 120 reporting gifts under the Act to the General Services Administration (GSA) with instructions that they be deposited in the National Archives for eventual inclusion in a Presidential Library or other appropriate location as determined by the Archivist, and authorizing their use, in the interim, for display and other uses consistent with instructions from the Chief of Protocol to GSA at the time of reporting (see Attachment B). 9. The Chief of Protocol shall forward to the Gift Unit a copy of the Form 120 which will serve as authorization for the Gift Unit to turn over those gifts listed thereon to GSA. GSA (National Archives) in cooperation with the Gift Unit will pack the gifts. Specific procedures will be developed between Archives and the Gift Unit for the following: (a) inventory of boxes, (b) standardization of box sizes, (c) packing of boxes, (d) segregation of items by value, (e) continuing records maintenance, preparation of receipts for loaned items and availability for inspection by the Chief of Protocol, his designee or the public. 10. If at any time a request is made to utilize a gift under the Act in a manner not specified in Attachment B, the Archivist must forward the request to the Chief of Protocol and receive his written approval. DRAFT ATTACHMENT A MEMORANDUM TO: DONALD H. RUMSFELD ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FROM: HENRY E. CATTO, JR. CHIEF OF PROTOCOL SUBJECT: Disposal of Perishable and Consumable Presidential Gifts Falling Under the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966, as amended. Under the authority granted to me by Section 3.6, Title 22, Code of Federal Regulations, the White House Gift Unit is hereby authorized to: 1. Receive on behalf of the Chief of Protocol perishable gifts valued in excess of $50 (flowers and food items). 2. Forward all flowers to the White House Flower Room with instructions for their use: a. in decorating the White House complex; b. at official White House functions both within and without the White House complex; and C. in military or tax-exempt hospitals. 3. Forward all food items to the White House commissary for use at appropriate official functions. 4. When use of perishables is not desired, forward the items in question to the Office of the Chief of Protocol for dis- position consistent with the provisions of 22 CFR, Sec. 3.6. 5. In instances not covered by this memo, the Gift Unit may contact the Chief of Protocol or his designee by telephone for additional instructions as to disposition. Such telephonic instructions will be confirmed in writing by the Office of the Chief of Protocol. 6. All above instructions are to be subject to the security regulations of the Secret Service. DRAFT ATTACHMENT B MEMORANDUM TO: DONALD H. RUMSFELD ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FROM: HENRY E. CATTO, JR. CHIEF OF PROTOCOL SUBJECT: Disposition of Presidential Gifts In accordance with the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966, as amended (Act), and section 3. 6, title 22, Code of Federal Regulations, the items listed on Standard Form 120, which are gifts received from foreign governments subject to the Act, are forwarded to the General Services Administration (GSA) for disposal. The following instructions are furnished concerning the disposition of these items: 1. All items not otherwise designated for specific use are to be stored in safekeeping by the Archivist of the United States in a location under his control. 2. In accordance with the provisions of Chapter 21, title 44, United States Code, at such a time as there is established a Presidential archival depository for the permanent storage and display of the papers and historical materials of the Administration of President Gerald R. Ford, these items are to be transferred to this Presidential archival depository, or any Presidential archival (temporary) depository so designated by the Archivist. 3. In the absence of such a Presidential archival depository, the Archivist is to deposit these items in other appropriate museums with the approval of the Chief of Protocol. 2 4. In the meantime, the Archivist is authorized to make available, without further approval from the Chief of Protocol, at the request of the President or his designees, any of these items for the following purposes: a. Display within the White House complex or at any location on Federal property. b. For uses incident to official White House functions within and without the White House complex. C. For temporary public display at a museum, university, or other institution or facility of general availability to the public. 5. In addition, the Archivist may make these items available for such other purposes as are requested by the President or his designees upon receipt of: a. A written request from the President or his designee and b. Written approval from the Chief of Protocol, Department of State. C. When there is insufficient time to secure either a written request from the President or his designee or written approval from the Chief of Protocol, a telephonic request and/or telephonic approval of the Chief of Protocol or his designee may be obtained. However, this is to be promptly followed by a written request and/or response approving this request. 6. The Archivist is responsible for careful and complete documentation of all movements, loans and other activities relating to these items, including obtaining and retaining receipts on all deliveries. All requests and instructions are to be in writing, consistent with the provisions of 5c., supra. 3 7. Any deviations from the procedures outlined herein are to be reported immediately in writing to the Chief of Protocol. STANDARD FORM 120A CONTINUATION SHEET APRIL 1957 PRESCRIBED BY (Report of Excess Personal Property) PAGE OSA 25G. 1-111-302.00 FROM (Name and Address of Reporting Agency) REPORT NO. AGENCY CONTROL NO. EXCESS PROPERTY LIST (Continued) ACQUISITION COST FAIR ITEM COND. UNIT NUMBER VALUE DESCRIPTION OF UNITS NO. PER UNIT TOTAL % (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) BERALD B FORD LIBRARY TAB B B because MEMORANDUM THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON November 5, 1974 FOR: Mr. Kₑₙneth Lazarus FROM: , Marez Wicklein Gift Unit Foreign Gifts for the President and First Family (Those under the Constitution and under the Act) DONOR ITEM LOCATION Biebrich, Honorable Oil painting of Father Kino, In Gift Unit. Carlos Armando Founder of missions in Sonora, Gov. of Sonora, Mex. Mexico & the U. S. : framed. Costa Gomez, Senor A set of 6 tomes - Portugese In Gift Unit. Pres. of Portugal large maps - 1960 O Bound edition - - white leather with gold lettering. Donor Unknown A protective headgear worn by In Gift Unit Tokyo, Japan warriors in battle in old Japan. Helmet is of black metal with 2 gold blades extending from either side. Echeverria, Honorable A carved mahogany baby seal. In Gift Unit. Alvarez Luis Meas. approx. 21" long and 7" Pres. of Mexico high. "The Ephemeral and the Eternal In GiftUnit. of Mexicanfolk Art", Volumes I & II. (Vol. I inscribed by donor). A blue & black carved box, in In Gift Unit. which is enclosed a pink, black & white mantilla with an 8" pink fringe. (A small fan is enclosed) FORD 3 LIBRARY ORNALO MEMORANDUM THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON Page 2 DONOR ITEM LOCATION , Gierek, Edward H. E. A neutral color wool shawl, East Wing for display. First Secretary of printed with floral design of (by Mr. Scouten). Polish United Worker's many colors with 5" white Party. fringe. 62" square overall. A 46" long necklace of amber, East Wing for display. cut and polished in irregular (by Mr. Scouten). natural forms. Encased in a maroon leather presentation case, lined with white silk. 2. 50 meters of silk marked In Gift Unit. "made in poland". A large presentation box of East Wing for display. hand hammered silver decor- (by Mr. Scouten). ated on the top with a cut out and applied silver Polish Eagle. (Lined with maroon velvet). 3 Navy blue leather stamp al- In Gift Unit. bums (with Polish Eagle stamped in gold on cover). Each contains 9 double-faced pages holding Polish stamps in celluloid strips. Gromyko, His Excel- A Palekh box meas. approx. 7" X In Gift Unit. lency Andrei A. 7 1/2" X 3 1/2". Black with red U.S.S.R. interior with a church scene painted on top. Ten bottles of vodka and ten contain- Room 45 ers of Russian caviar. Contained in (Mail room) brown wooden laquered case. Khaddam, His Excel- A navy blue damask table-cloth. In Gift Unit. lency Abdul Halim Floral designs in gold & white Syria threads. (8 matching napkins). A red decanter bottl e with a In Gift Unit. spire ornamented with gold & white painted designs. MEMORANDUM THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON Page 3 DONOR ITEM LOCATION Khaddam, His Excel- Bronze wall plaque with silver In Gift Unit lency Abdul Halim & brass etched designs. Syria Koh, Hon. Heung-Moon A black lacquered spice chest, in- In Gift Unit Member of National laid with mother-of-pearl (has Assembly 4 drawers). Seoul, Korea Leone, His Excellency An Etruscan "Buchero", found In Gift Unit Giovanni in Vulci, Italy on 2-19-62. It Pres. of Italian Repub. dates 580-550-B. C. A large abstract oil painting in In Gift Unit. bold colors-orange background with abstract figures in black, white & yellow - set in white frame. An all leather handbag made by In Gift Unit Gucci - ivory colored. A set of 6 pipes, different styles In President's Oval and all handmade in Cantu, Italy. Office. (Pipe rack made of wood accompan- ies the pipes). A brown grain leather tote bag by Susan Ford. Gucci. (Brass buckle with green & red ribbon down front center). A photo of President Leone is a In Gift Unit. frame (silver with emblem of the Italian Republic, top center.) Rabin, His Excellency A sterling silver statue of David In Gift Unit Yitzhak slaying Goliath mounted on what Prime Minister of Israel appears to be anthracite, set on marble of faint orange & pale yellow (engraved plaque on it.) MEMORANDUM THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON Page 4 DONOR ITEM LOCATION Rabin, Mrs. Lea An 18K Scarab (beetle) In Gift Unit Wife of Prime Minister necklace, set with antique Jerusalem, Israel diamond. A Semitic Religious Symbol. ZAHEDI, His Excel- Four cans of caviar flown in Unknown lency Ardeshir from Iran. The caviar was Ambassador of Iran picked up by USSS agent for Washlngton, D. C. Richard E. Keiser, - Secret Servi ce, Enclosure. Memo 10/25/74 fm and catto w/ Sept Register, medican meeting. FORDO is 9ERALD LIBRARY THE CHIEF OF PROTOCOL 48 DEPARTMENT OF STATE WASHINGTON, D.C. 20520 October 25, 1974 MEMORANDUM FOR THE RECORD SUBJECT PRESIDENTIAL GIFTS FROM FOREIGN NATIONALS The following foreign gifts were given to President and Mrs. Ford during the President's meetings with Mexican Presi- dent Echeverria on October 21, 1974, in Nogales/Magdalena, Mexico and in Nogales/Tubac, Arizona. These gifts have been registered with the Office of Protocol and are presently in storage with this office [except. where indicated on the register]. Appropriate letters of thanks should be sent each donor. Henry F. Catto, Jr. CC: Mrs. Nancy Howe, The White House White House Gifts Unit i The Deputy Chief of Protocol Mr. Chris Jones, S/CPR Miss Jane Guilbault, S/CPR Mr. Patrick Daly, S/CPR GIFT REGISTER DESCRIPTION OF GIFT: DONOR: RECIPIENT: THE FOLLOWING GIFTS WERE RECEIVED BY PRESIDENT FORD DURING HIS MEETINGS WITH MEXICAN PRESIDENT ECHEVERRIA ON OCTOBER 21, 1974, in Nogales/Magdalena, Mexico and in Nogales/Tubac, Arizona. Two volumne Book Set: "The Ephemeral President Echeverria of Mexico President Ford and the Eternal of Mexicanfolk Art" Carved Mahogany Baby Seal President Echeverria of Mexico President Ford Carved Wooden Box (in blue & black) President Echeverria of Mexico Mrs. Ford [gift being sent to Mrs. Ford for viewing] - Received in Seft Unit 11/4/74 Oil Painting of Father Kino (founder The Honorable Carlos Armando Biebrich President Ford of missions in Sonora, Mexico and Governor of Sonora the U.S.) Hermosillo, Sonora Mexico White Felt Sombrero with Gold Trim President Ford [gift left w/Mrs. Ford for display at the White House) - not resid in Septement as of 11/5/74 GIFT REGISTER Page 2 or 2 DESCRIPTION OF GIFT: DONOR: RECIPIENT: Two tan lambs skin jackets with The Honorable Alicia Arellano Tapia de President & Mrs. Ford white lambs wool lining - details: Pavloviteh seamed with rawhide strips. Mayor of Magdalena - notraid inpostent Magdalena, Sonora [gift at White House] Mexico 0/19/74 Oval Tray in Silver. Details: fluted President Ford edges, Mayan circle design in center with writing: Mexico 1974. (gift left w/Mrs. Ford for display at the White House) - not paid in Septement as of 10/5/74 GERALD R. ONO: LIBRARY department OF STATE THE Washington, D.C. 20520 Nancy- the box given ileo. Ford by President Echeverria. you can just rend it on to the 9:fts Unit in 20B when you've finished with it - -- PS. it hasn't been checked yet w/usss. IllouSheils Sheils BER ORD LIBRARY TAB C DRAFT PRESS RELEASE THE WHITE HOUSE The White House today announced new procedures governing the processing of gifts received by the First Family from representatives of foreign governments. Art. I, Sec. 9, cl. 8 of the Constitution prohibits the acceptance of any gift, title, office or other thing of benefit or value from any foreign government by any official of the United States government without the consent of Congress. The Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966 expanded this Constitutional bar to cover a 11 member of the family and household " of a government official, expressly including the President. The 1966 Act and regulations issued pursuant thereto provided Congressional consent only to the personal acceptance of foreign gifts of minimal value (under $50.00) by government employees. Gifts of more than minimal value may be accepted only on behalf of the United States in instances where refusal would adversely affect our foreign relations. Thus, this latter category of gifts constitutes public, not private, property and restrictions are placed on their use or disposition. As public property, foreign gifts may be retained or used by the President or members of the First Family for "official uses" with the approval of the Chief of Protocol. The newly-released 2 procedures which are the result of the joint efforts of the Department of State, Chief of Protocol Henry Catto, the General Services Administration and White House personnel, are designed to ensure compliance with these requirements. Under the new standards, foreign gifts received by the First Family will be available for: (1) display within the White House or at other Federal facilities; (2) uses incident to official White House functions; (3) display at museums or other public facilities; and (4) such other official uses as may be expressly approved by the Chief of Protocol. Presidential Assistant Donald Rumsfeld has also directed the heads of Departments and agencies to develop procedures to ensure government-wide compliance with the 1966 Act and regulations. Additional announcements may be expected in the near future as reevaluations are completed of current policies governing foreign gift-giving and receiving, as well as White House policy with respect to the receipt of gifts from domestic sources. TAB D THE WHITE HOUSE DRAFT WASHINGTON MEMORANDUM FOR: HEADS OF ALL FEDERAL DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES FROM: DONALD H. RUMSFELD ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT SUBJECT: Foreign Gifts Attached are copies of newly-instituted procedures governing the receipt and use of gifts from representatives of foreign governments by the First Family and a Memorandum to all employees of the Executive Office of the President dealing with restrictions on the receipt of foreign gifts by Federal employees. Article I, Sec. 9, cl. 8 of the Constitution, the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966 (Title 5, U.S.C., Sec. 7342 et seq. ) and controlling regulations (22 CFR 3) read together, prohibit the personal acceptance of any gift of more than minimal value ($50) from the representative of a foreign government by a Federal government employee. However, in instances where refusal would adversely affect the foreign relations of the United States, acceptance may be made on behalf of the United States. Thus, such gifts of more than minimal value would constitute public, not personal, property and must be treated accordingly. Kindly take such steps as are necessary to inform the personnel of your agency or department of the scope of these restrictions and to ensure full compliance with the legal authorities noted above. TAB E THE WHITE HOUSE DRAFT WASHINGTON MEMORANDUM FOR: ALL EMPLOYEES OF THE EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT FROM: PHILIP W. BUCHEN COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT SUBJECT: Foreign Gifts Article I, Sec. 9, cl. 8 of the Constitution, the Foreign Gifts and De corations Act of 1966 (Title 5, U.S.C., Sec. 7342 et seq. ) and controlling regulations (22 CFR §3) read together, prohibit the personal acceptance of any gift of more than minimal value ($50) from the representative of a foreign government by a Federal government employee. However, in instances where refusal would adversely affect the foreign relations of the United States, acceptance may be made on behalf of the United States. Thus, such gifts of more than minimal value would constitute public, not personal, property and must be treated accordingly. This is to request that you promptly report to the Counsel's office any offer of a gift from the representative of a foreign government prior to acceptance. " WHITE HOUSE DATE Nov. 18, 1974 TO: Phil Buchen FROM: Ken Lazarus INFORMATION X ACTION APPROPRIATE HANDLING COMMENTS: MEMORANDUM THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON November 15, 1974 TO: DONALD RUMSFELD FROM: Don Lowitz SUBJECT: Receipt of Foreign Gifts It has been our intention to submit the entire gift issue, both foreign and domestic, as one package for consideration. A procedure has been worked out with the State Department, Office of Protocol, and GSA for the processing of foreign gifts received by the President and other members of the First Family (See tab A). Ken Lazárus indicates that Phil Buchen would prefer that this portion of the gift issue record be put into effect immediately without awaiting the larger decisions, both as to the change in the nature of the foreign gifts which would be given by the President and the entire domestic gift issue. I think Phil's position is sensible and if you concur, please let him know by sending the attached memo (See tab B). cc: Ken Lazarus Procedures for the Processing of Gifts Subject to the TabA Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966, and other Gifts from Foreign Sources. 1. All gifts received by or on behalf of the President and his family are to be delivered to the White House Mail Room or the Gift Unit upon receipt. 2. The White House Mail Room will: (a) Assign identity numbers to each item; (b) For each gift from a foreign source, prepare a pink card in sextuplicate, containing all pertinent information about the gift; (c) Affix identity number to gift item or its container, and original and all copies of the pink card; (d) Send gift, along with original and three copies of the pink card, to the Gift Unit; and two (e) Retain three copies of the pink card for appropriate filing in the Mail Room. 3. Gifts received directly by the Gift Unit will be logged in coordination with the Mail Room, i. e., identity number assigned by the Mail Room, two copies for the Mail Room files, etc. 4. Gift Unit will segregate cards and gifts into the following categories: (a) Gifts clearly worth less than $50.00 (Smithsonian will make available appraisers where necessary to assist in this determination); (b) Gifts over $50.00; (c) Gifts of jewelry and other items of great value, requiring special handling for safekeeping; (d) Gifts of consumables and perishables. Following this initial segregation, the Gift Unit will arrange for photographing all gifts falling into categories 4(b) and (c). 5. After segregation, the Gift Unit will send 2 copy of each pink card to the Chief of Protocol for review prior to the inspection required in 6(b), infra. 6 2. When immediate use of a gift is anticipated at the time of its receipt in the Gift Unit, the Gift Unit will prepare a request for that use which will be promptly sent to the Chief of Protocol (along with 2 copy of the pink card) for his approval. When there is insufficient time to request such approval in writing, telephonic approval may be sought from the Office of the Chief of Protocol. However, this is to be followed by a written request and response approving this use. As soon as practicable, the gift shall be photographed and a copy sent to the Office of the Chief of Protocol. These gifts shall be available for inspection by the Chief of Protocol or his designee. Once this particular official use has ceased, the Gift Unit shall notify the Office of the Chief of Protocol in order that the normal procedures for reporting the item to GSA can be completed (see 6b, infra). b. Every two weeks the Chief of Protocol or his designee will visit the Gift Unit to inspect all gifts from foreign sources (and the pink cards for these gifts) received since the last inspection (with exception for items described in 4(d), supra, for which the Gift Unit shall be given authority to dispose of on receipt (see Attachment A)). The Chief of Protocol or his designee will examine the gift and classification tentatively made by the Gift Unit and will determine and/or concur with the appropriate classification as to statutory or non-statutory gift, indicate such on the pink card, and initial and date all pink cards for gifts from foreign sources. 7. The Gift Unit will prepare a declaration card (furnished by the Chief of Protocol) on all items determined to fall under the Act and forward the card, with 2 photograph of the gift attached, to the Chief of Protocol within forty-eight (48) hours after inspection. 3 8. The Chief of Protocol will then prepare a Form 120 reporting gifts under the Act to the General Services Administration (GSA) with instructions that they be deposited in the National Archives for eventual inclusion in a Presidential Library or other, appropriate location as determined by the Archivist, and authorizing their use, in the interim, for display and other uses consistent with instructions from the Chief of Protocol to GSA at the time of reporting (see Attachment B). 9. The Chief of Protocol shall forward to the Gift Unit 2 copy of the Form 120 which will serve as authorization for the Gift Unit to turn over those gifts listed thereon to GSA. GSA (National Archives) in cooperation with the Gift Unit will pack the gifts. Specific procedures will be developed between Archives and the Gift Unit for the following: (a) inventory of boxes, (b) standardization of box sizes, (c) packing of boxes, (d) segregation of items by value, (e) continuing records maintenance, preparation of receipts for loaned items and availability for inspection by the Chief of Protocol, his designee or the public. 10. If at any time a request is made to utilize a gift under the Act in a manner not specified in Attachment B, the Archivist must forward the request to the Chief of Protocol and receive his written approval. DRAFT ATTACHMENT A MEMORANDUM TO: DONALD H. RUMSFELD ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT FROM: HENRY E. CATTO, JR. CHIEF OF PROTOCOL SUBJECT: Disposal of Perishable and Consumable Presidential Gifts Falling Under the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966, as amended. Under the authority granted to me by Section 3.6, Title 22, Code of Federal Regulations, the White House Gift Unit is hereby authorized to: 1. Receive on behalf of the Chief of Protocol perishable gifts valued in excess of $50 (flowers and food items). 2. Forward all flowers to the White House Flower Room with instructions for their use: a. in decorating the White House complex; b. at official White House functions both within and without the White House complex; and c. in military or tax-exempt hospitals. 3. Forward all food items to the White House commissary for use at appropriate official functions. 4. When use of perishables is not desired, forward the items in question to the Office of the Chief of Protocol for dis- position consistent with the provisions of 22 CFR, Sec. 3.6. 5. In instances not covered by this memo, the Gift Unit may contact the Chief of Protocol or his designee by telephone for additional instructions as to disposition. Such telephonic instructions will be confirmed in writing by the Office of the Chief of Protocol. 6. All above instructions are to be subject to the security regulations of the Secret Service. DRAFT ATTACHMENT B MEMORANDUM TO: ARTHUR F. SAMPSON ADMINISTRATOR, GSA FROM: HENRY E. CATTO, JR. CHIEF OF PROTOCOL SUBJECT: Disposition of Presidential Gifts In accordance with the Foreign Gifts and Decorations Act of 1966, as amended (Act), and section 3.6, title 22, Code of Federal Regulations, the items listed on Standard Form 120, which are gifts received from foreign governments subject to the Act, are forwarded to the General Services Administration (GSA) for disposal. The following instructions are furnished concerning the disposition of these items: 1. All items not otherwise designated for specific use are to be stored in safekeeping by the Archivist of the United States in a location under his control. 2. In accordance with the provisions of Chapter 21, title 44, United States Code, at such a time as there is established a Presidential archival depository for the permanent storage and display of the papers and historical materials of the Administration of President Gerald R: Ford, these items are to be transferred to this Presidential archival depository, or any Presidential archival (temporary) depository so designated by the Archivist. 3. In the absence of such a Presidential archival depository, the Archivist is to deposit these items in other appropriate museums with the approval of the Chief of Protocol. 2 4. In the meantime, the Archivist is authorized to make available, without further approval from the Chief of Protocol, at the request of the President or his designees, any of these items for the following purposes: a. Display within the White House complex or at any location on Federal property. b. For uses incident to official White House functions within and without the White House complex. c. For temporary public display at a museum, university, or other institution or facility of general availability to the public. 5. In addition, the Archivist may make these items available for such other purposes as are requested by the President or his designees upon receipt of: a. A written request from the President or his designee and b. Written approval from the Chief of Protocol, Department of State. c. When there is insufficient time to secure either a written request from the President or his designee or written approval from the Chief of Protocol, a telephonic request and/or telephonic approval of the Chief of Protocol or his designee may be obtained. However, this is to be promptly followed by a written request and/or response approving this request. 6. The Archivist is responsible for careful and complete documentation of all movements, loans and other activities relating to these items, including obtaining and retaining receipts on all deliveries. All requests and instructions are to be in writing, consistent with the provisions of 5c., supra. 3 7. Any deviations from the procedures outlined herein are to be reported immediately in writing to the Chief of Protocol. Tab B THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON November , 1974 MEMORANDUM TO: PHIL BUCHEN FROM: DONALD RUMSFELD SUBJECT: Processing of Foreign Gifts Received by the President and Members of the First Family I have reviewed the procedures which have been worked out with the State Department Office of Protocol and GSA concerning the processing of foreign gifts received by the President and members of the First Family, and concur in their adoption and immediate implementation. To Lazares THE WHITE HOUSE 11/26/14 WASHINGTON November 25, 1974 MEMORANDUM FOR: HENRY E. CATTO, JR. CHIEF OF PROTOCOL Your recommendation of October 9, 1974, that the President re-evaluate the present policy for exchange of gifts between heads of state is under consideration. In order to put this issue before the President, it is necessary to have the State Department's official position on this question. In addition, I would appreciate your thoughts on the timing and announce- ment of such a policy change following the President's trip to the Far East. I look forward to receiving your response at your earliest convenience. Donald Rumsfeld DONALD RUMSFELD ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT CC: Philip W. Buchen THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON November 20, 1974 MEMORANDUM FOR: Dick Cheney FROM: Don Lowitz 52 SUBJECT: Memo from DR to Henry E. Catto, Jr. re: Policy Change on Exchange of Gifts for Heads of State Attached is a revision of the memo from DR to Catto. It reflects the question raised by Scowcroft and is somewhat changed in format but not content. I presume with this change, you can sign off and forward it to Catto's office. Attachment CC Phil Buchen Potrig P/S THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON November 13, 1974 MEMORANDUM FOR: JEANNE W. DAVIS FROM: PHILIP W. BUCHEN T.W.B. SUBJECT: Presidential Initiative on Gifts I have reviewed your draft memorandum from Brent Scowcroft to Don Rumsfeld regarding the recommendation of Henry Catto that the President consider abandoning the practice of giving valuable gifts to heads of state and prohibit all government officials from doing the same. My comments are as follows: 1. For your information, the Counsel's office, in cooperation with Don Rumsfeld's office, is currently working to formulate viable alternatives to a series of questions facing us with respect to gifts. This includes the policy of giving and receiving foreign gifts, the acceptance and use of domestic gifts and honoraria. 2. While I am in accord with the idea of giving only token gifts to foreign dignitaries, I believe that our policy covering the receipt of foreign gifts should be parallel. 3. I understand that there is a question as to whether Henry Catto's views are reflective of the Department of State's official views on this question. 4. The basic question in this area is one of timing. Should an announcement be made early on only with respect to foreign gifts or should an announcement await the resolution of all gift issues? 5. My inclination at this time is to support a Presidential statement on policy changes in the gift area because of domestic advantages which might be derived by such a statement. 6. At such time as an announcement is made on foreign gift-giving and receiving, it would probably be wise for State to notify not only 2 all U., S. diplomatic posts abroad, but also all foreign missions within the U. S. I hope that these comments are of some utility to you. Hopefully, the matter can be presented to the President sometime shortly after his forthcoming trip to the Far East. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON Ken Lazarus: Please call me about comments you suggest I make. Note the Scowcroft memo relates only to giving (not receiving) gifts. I feel that both would have to be res tricted as Cotto suggests. P. 27B MEMORANDUM NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL 11/6 4802 November 5, 1974 MEMORANDUM FOR MR. BUCHEN FROM: Jeanne W. Davis oms SUBJECT: Presidential Initiative on Gifts The Chief of Protocol has suggested that the President abandon the practice of giving valuable gifts to foreign leaders. Before we go forward to Ambassador Rumsfeld, we would appreciate your clearance and/or comments on the attached recommendation. DRAFT MEMO FOR AMB. RUMSFELD FROM: Brent Scowcroft SUBJECT: Presidential Initiative on Gifts The NSC concurs in the suggestion by the Chief of Protocol that the President consider discontinuing the current practice of giving valuable gifts to Heads of State and Govern ment on the occasion of Official Visits to the US. We believe, however, that an exception should be made for specific occasions in which the United States might wish to give an appropriate gift to a foreign dignitary for a wedding, birth, or other significant event. As has been past practice, a decision on sending such a gift would be made on a case by case basis. If the President approves the elimination of the exchange of valuable gifts, the NSC proposes that State immediately instruct all U. S. diplomatic posts of the President's wishes. At the same time, Cabinet members could be advised accordingly so that they will conform to the President's wishes. We do not believe a Presidential statement would be necessary or desirable since it might revive the recent publicity over gifts which have been exchanged in the past. However, we would defer to the domestic side on the advantages which might be derived from such a statement. THE CHIEF OF PROTOCOL DEPARTMENT OF STATE WASHINGTON October 9, 1974 CONF TAL MEMORANDUM FOR MR. DONALD RUMSFELD ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT THE WHITE HOUSE SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL INITIATIVE ON GIFTS I believe that President Ford's recent assumption of office, constitutional intent, inflation, and recent controversy concerning gifts may make an initiative on this problem appropriate at this time. In order to solve the difficulties connected with gift-giving and receiving, President Ford might consider abandoning the practice of giving valuable gifts to heads of state and prohibit all government officials from doing the same. A photograph or collection of photographs should be sufficient to commemorate the visit by a head of state. Similarly, dinners and other events during state visits constitute appropriate marks of our respect for other countries and officials. Were the President to announce his intention not to give or receive valuable gifts, other governments and heads of state might adopt the same policy; a practice which has caused problems for previous Presidents would be abandoned; and the President's reputation for both thrift and lack of ostentation would be enhanced. A possible Presidential statement is enclosed. DECLASSIFIED thority State Department Guidelines KR NLF Date 6/28/88 Henry E. Catto, Jr. FORD Enclosure: As stated GERALD LIBRARY GONE ID ENT TAL STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT I have only recently become aware of the extent and character of the exchange of gifts on the occasion of state visits and between governments generally. It will be the practice of my Administration to discourage the exchange of gifts of significant value on any and all occasions. I believe firmly that the Framers of our Constitu- tion included in Section 9 of Article I, a clear and valid prohibition against the exchange of valuable gifts. Congress in 1966 codified this provision in the Presidential Gifts and Decorations Act and I intend to abide by the spirit and intent of our Constitution and our laws. I am today issuing instructions to the Cabinet on this matter so that this policy can be carried out through- out the Government. I will also ask our Ambassadors to convey to foreign governments my feelings in this matter. FORD È LIBRARY 078830 Confidential November. 1974 DECLASSIFIED EQ and MEMORANDUM thority state DyMorice Guidelines KR NLF Date 6/28/88 TO: Honorable Henry E. Catto, Jr. Chief of Protocol FROM: Donald Rumsfeld Assistant to the President Your recommenelation of October 9, 1974, that the President re-evaluate the present policy for exchange of gifts between heads of state remains under consideration. I would appreciate your thoughts on the potential, possible timing n of such a and announcement policy change following the President's forthcoming trip to the Far East. In addition, I assume your October 9, 1974 recommendation represents the Department of State's official view on this question While I cannot indicate to you the President's final decision at this time, I look forward to receiving your thoughts on this matter at your earliest conven lence cc: Philip W. Buchen Counsel to the President