A transcript of
President George W Bush's statement on his decision to
allow National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice to
testify before the 9-11 Commission.
Today I
have informed the Commission on Terrorist Attacks
Against the United States that my National Security
Advisor, Dr Condoleezza Rice, will provide public
testimony. I've also advised Chairman Kean and Vice
Chairman Hamilton that Vice President Cheney and I will
jointly meet with all members of the commission in a
private session.
This commission has been
charged with a crucial task. To prevent future attacks,
we must understand the methods of our enemies. The
terrorist threat being examined by the commission is
still present, still urgent and still demands our full
attention.
From the day the panel was created, I
have directed executive branch agencies and members of
my staff to cooperate with the commission.
Recognizing the exceptional nature of this
inquiry, we have given commission members access to
relevant presidential daily briefings, to my
communications with foreign leaders, and to internal
White House communications.
More than 800
members of the administration have been interviewed.
More than 20 White House officials have met with
the commission, or soon will do so. Dr Rice, herself,
has already met privately with the commission for four
hours. I've ordered this level of cooperation because I
consider it necessary to gaining a complete picture of
the months and years that preceded the murder of our
fellow citizens on September the 11th, 2001.
As
the commission has done its work, I've also been
concerned, as has Dr Rice, that an important principle
be upheld: a president and his advisors, including his
advisor for national security affairs, must be able to
communicate freely and privately, without being
compelled to reveal those communications to the
legislative branch. This principle of the separation of
powers is protected by the constitution, is recognized
by the courts and has been defended by presidents of
both political parties.
We have observed this
principle while also seeking ways for Dr Rice to
testify, so that the public record is full and accurate.
Now the commission and leaders of the United States
Congress have given written assurances that the
appearance of the National Security Advisor will not be
used as precedent in the conduct of future inquiries.
The leaders of Congress and the commission agree - they
agree with me that the circumstances of this case are
unique, because the events of September the 11th, 2001,
were unique.
At my direction, Judge Gonzales has
informed the commission that Dr Rice will participate in
an open public hearing. Our nation must never forget the
loss or the lessons of September the 11th, and we must
not assume that the danger has passed. The United States
will confront gathering dangers to our freedom and
security. The commission knows its responsibility: to
collect vital information and to present it to the
American people. And I know my responsibility, as well:
to act against the continuing threat and to protect the
American people. I have made that pledge to my fellow
citizens, and I will keep it.
Thank you.
Apr 1, 2004
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