July 17, 1963 - Following are highlights of President Kennedy’s news conference today:
Nuclear Testing — President Kennedy pledged that U.S. and British negotiators in the Moscow talks over a nuclear test ban would not act on any matters affecting their European Allies without first consulting them. He expressed hope the negotiations would be successful.
Civil Rights — The President said the planned civil rights demonstration to be held in Washington Aug. 28 was shaping up as an orderly gathering. He said he looked forward to being in Washington on that day. But he warned against riotous demonstrations. He also denied allegations of some Southern leaders that the integration movement and its leaders were Communist-inspired. He said Communism was always a “convenient scapegoat.”
Cuba — Mr. Kennedy said he saw no easing of tensions between the U.S. and Cuba “as long as Cuba is a Soviet satellite.”
South Vietnam — The President said, “For us to withdraw from that effort would mean a collapse not only of South Vietnam, but Southeast Asia. So, we are going to stay there.”
South Africa — He said the U.S. was opposed to the racial policies of South Africa, but he would not favor ousting that country from the United Nations.
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