47. Memorandum From the Director of the United States Information Agency (Reinhardt) to the Acting Assistant Director, Broadcasting Service (Tuch)1
I attach the highest importance to the integrity of the Voice of America. It holds in trust—at all times, and in all circumstances—an important, continuing obligation to the national interests of the United States. I share that obligation.
I am herewith establishing the following guidelines to implement the principles established by Section 503 of Public Law 94–3502 governing the operations of the Voice of America.
1. VOA will be solely responsible for the content of news broadcasts. I expect VOA to continue to apply its double-source rule.
2. The Office of Policy and Plans (IOP) is responsible for providing guidance in regard to VOA’s obligation to “. . . present the policies of the United States clearly and effectively . . .” via commentaries and analyses. There will be no prior script clearance of VOA commentaries and analyses. Post-broadcast critiques will be regularly conducted. I expect VOA to inform IOP of projected commentaries and analyses and to seek IOP’s policy judgments in advance whenever time permits. VOA will continue to collaborate with IOP in the selection of topics for commentary/analysis on specific foreign policy issues.
3. Policy guidance from other USIA elements will be channelled to VOA exclusively through IOP; area offices will be guided accordingly.
4. Policy input to VOA from other Executive Branch elements will be passed exclusively through IOP. VOA will refer anyone seeking direct contact with its staff on policy matters to IOP as the only authorized intermediary. I expect these referrals will be firm but courteous.
5. I expect that VOA will look to IOP for guidance on the policy implications of foreign affairs issues, for suggestions of emphasis, and for specific caveats. VOA will seek advice, consult on issues and, whenever appropriate, raise individual policy problems which trouble VOA broadcasters. There must be a close, collegial operational relationship among VOA and other Agency elements, particularly Area Offices and field posts, in recognition that radio is a prime communications instrument for all of us.
[Page 132]6. Communications from Embassies and overseas USIS Posts should be welcomed by VOA and responded to on their merits. Policy issues raised in such communications should be considered jointly by IOP and VOA.
7. I expect VOA to take the initiative to seek background information necessary for the authoritativeness and accuracy of its broadcasts from sources within and without the Executive Branch.