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THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN NEWS SUMMARY December 15, 1973 (Fri. nets, wires) The major stories of the day: - DST passes Hill and if RN signs by Sunday, it'll be in effect by 1/6/74. CBS/NBC lead and ABC note. NBC noted RN requested this 1st-in-peacetime DST and Admin sees 3% energy cut as result, but an FPC report indicates only 1/4 of 1% will be saved All nets also noted Senate ok of 55 mph for all w/bill now to conference. RN met w/top economic advisers, led ABC and, as NBC also noted in #2 story and Sevareid commentary, Admin doesn't see recession. In commentary, HKS was hopeful, but also skeptical of that view ABC followed up short lead of meeting w/film of RN liting Xmas tree before "friendly" crowd. In #11 story, NBC called it "enthusiastic" and noted many young people. In #3 story, Pierpoint found "heavily political overtones" at what's primarily a religious ceremony. All nets emphasized 80% in tree's energy cut and ABC/CBS had clips as RN said less lites won't diminish spirit of Xmas. NBC noted. All shows w/clips as tree was lit w/note of Boy Scout and Campfire Girl. ABC clip included RN saying we can be thankful we're at peace this Xmas. NBC noted that Live network coverage from 5:30-6:00 EST on NBC/CBS ABC also had film of PN taking reporters on tour of WH transformed, said reporter, into an Xmas blend of spruce, ornaments, poinsettias, and wreaths, but very few lites. - Tree liting was "yet another" public function for RN this week, said Chancellor following film of events of past week's "publicity blitz" geared to show a busy and energetic Pres despite his W'gate troubles. RN clipsw/govs, MCs, Simon, Tex Ritter, vets and Southern backers. As for theory that GOP election problems may force RN out, Brokaw reported a WH aide said RN isn't going to quit just because a few GOP MCs go down the tube. And, Brokaw added, WH sees W' gate receding w/further shrinkage expected as more info is disclosed. Tho there' be more embarrassments as w/tax returns, WH officials say embarrassment's preferable to impeachment ABC said decision to take train to Fla. isn't fina 1 yet, but NBC said the plan has been confirmed and RN will be 1st since Ike to do so. Pierpoint also indicated indecision as experts and Amtrak aren't sure if added costs of security, manpower and refurbished cars would make train cheaper after all. But, closed Pierpoint, RN plans to go by air or train didn't