APL will not employ a single American seafarer on the new ships due to arrive in Seattle this summer. APL will, however, continue to receive cash subsidies derived from taxes paid by the shrinking group of men and women sailing under the American flag. APL will not contribute to American shipbuilding and repair, nor will APL be bound by the laws which protect crew members from exploitive labor practices. APL has chosen to run from American legislation designed to protect American workers and Puget Sound coastlines from shabby operating practices. Their convenience is freedom from labor laws, freedom from construction standards, freedom from taxation, freedom from social standards, and freedom from liability and responsibility.
American standards are high.
American wages are high. Those high standards are reflected in the cleanliness of our shorelines and the vitality of our seaside tourism and recreation. American wage levels support the finest universities and research facilities in the world. American industries, and public education draw the finest minds on this planet. American wages contributed to a standard of living which we once held up as a model to the world.