New Britain herald., 1917-09-18
BILLS ARE READY
 FOR ALIEN SLACkERS
Three Measures Go to State De-
 pertinent for Criticism

Washington, Sept 1S-Congress is ready to take up the problem pre- sented by so-called "alien slackers," nationals of allied or neutral coun- tries who claim exemption under the conscription low.
 The house rules committe for warded to the state department yes- terday with a request for an opinion thereon. the three measures which have been proposed for he settlement of this problem. Unofflcially the de- partment has taken the position that no legislation seeking to draft aliens must contravene existing treaties. Two Of the proposals guard against this and to that extent meet the views of the department.
 Representative Rogers, Massachu- sets, member of the foreign affairs committee, has a resolution directing the state department to invoke the aid Of diplomacy with a view to ob- talnlng from neutral and allied gov ernments consent that their respec- tive nationals be made subject to the draft law. Tentatively, this has been approved by officials of the state de- pertinent.
 The measure introduced originally in the senate by Senator Chamberlain provides for the drafting of aliens, ex- cept enemy aliens, when such course does not contravene existing treaty obligations.
 Representative Burnett of Alabama has proposal for the deportation of all friendly aliens who claim exemp- tion from the draft
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 The position of Italy is the principal argument in favor of the Rogers res olution. Italy does not recognize dual citizenship with respect to her na- tionals and technically would be called upon to resent any attempt to draft her nationals in this country. How ever, it is understood that Italy has been sounded out automatically on the subject and State Department of ficials are hopeful that she will fore go her natural course in this instance.
 Against the Rogers proposal it is argued that if the question whether their nationals shall be enlisted against Germany should be presented to neu- tral Governments, these Governments will be faced with the alternative of taking affirmative action, which Ger many would classify as either unneu- tral and unfriendly, in that they would have to deny the request of this Government. Furthermore, it is not to be expected that Holland, Sweden or Switzerland would officially grant the request.
 In the case of the Chamberlain pro- posal, allied and neutral nations, it is argued, would have no opportunity to interfere with what would be treated as an internal question, except where treaty obligations are involved Ma tions nominally neutral. but in reality friendly to the Entente American cause would thereby be relieved of the necessity for taking affirmative action or negative action. which the United States wishes to obviate.
 Sentiment in Congress is strongly insistent that some action be taken effectively to meet the "alien slacker'' problem and the report of the State Departm ent. while 1t will be largely deferred to, may not dictate alto gether the decision of the Rules Com mittee in choosing between the vari- ous proposals presented. The State Department report is expected shortly.