Statement by Deputy Press Secretary Speakes on Defense Spending

April 7, 1983

The President is deeply disappointed by the Senate Budget Committee's vote on budget authority for the Department of Defense. It is his hope that a majority of the committee will find a way to reconsider their action.

Note: By a vote of 17 to 4, the committee approved a 5-percent increase in military spending authority after accounting for inflation. The President had requested a 10-percent increase after accounting for inflation.