[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 40 (Monday, March 10, 2008)]
[House]
[Pages H1420-H1421]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1415
               AIRBUS WINS AIR FORCE CONTRACT OVER BOEING

  (Mr. CARNAHAN asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. CARNAHAN. Madam Speaker, a week ago Friday, the market dropped 
400-plus points, and the Air Force announced its award of a refueling 
aircraft contract to foreign-based Airbus over U.S.-based Boeing. At a 
time when we are working on national economic stimulus plans for our 
sagging economy, outsourcing vital defense work and good-paying jobs 
raises questions that are both troubling and alarming. Their decision 
to reward foreign interests by spending $40 billion abroad has been 
ridiculed. Many today are still shaking their heads. It reminds me of a 
time not long ago when we were being asked to relinquish control of our 
ports. This latest debacle doesn't make sense, and it is not good for 
our country.
  Air Force officials have agreed to move up a debriefing with Boeing 
officials to explain why they would outsource the construction of 179 
aerial tankers abroad. Adding insult to injury, many believe the Air 
Force decision will end up actually buying a more costly and less 
capable aircraft.

[[Page H1421]]

  Many Members are disturbed by what has transpired as a result of this 
deal. It degrades our national defense industry. It diminishes economic 
development opportunities and jobs here at home. When will we insist on 
putting America's interests first? This Congress should act swiftly and 
responsibly to review and to stop this questionable contract award.

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