But, as you gentlemen know, there are some labor unions in Seattle that are having what are commonly known as Communist problems. Charges of communism and countercharges are being filed, and members charged with Communist activity---- Mr. MOULDER. We were to hear a short statement. Mr. SYKES. I will shorten the statement by saying that the use of the fifth amendment by these witnesses in answer to the question, “Have you ever been a member of a labor union?” is not meant in any way to incriminate labor unions as such. But the refusal is based solely on legal and technical grounds. Mr. MOULDER. All right, that will be all. At this time I would like to read a letter which was addressed to the committee from the International Association of Machinists: DEAR SIR: Because of repeated reference to the Machinists Union, AFL, before your committee on Thursday, March 17, 1955, we respectfully request that the following information be made part of the record so that all may be aware of the true facts with respect to the attitude of the International Association of Machinists and the participation by its members in the Communist Party, its front organizations, or the giving of support to such organizations. Since 1925 the International Association of Machinists has had prohibitions in its laws against such activities on the part of any of its members. A diligent and unending effort has constantly been made to rid our organization of persons having Communist or Fascist Party membership or sympathies. Testimony before your committee in 1954 indicated that several persons, members of our organization, might at the same time be members of, or giving support to, the Communist Party. Our own investigations, since that time, have resulted in the expulsion from our organization of four persons named by witness, Barbara Hartle, before your committee in 1954. Among these four persons, as expelled, was Harold Johnston, witness before your committee on Thursday, March 17, 1955. Investigations are continuing with respect to others and if it is found that they also are guilty of the conduct charged to them by witnesses before your committee, they likewise will be tried and expelled in accordance with the provisions of our constitution. The evidence before your committee has been most helpful and we are certain you will find our union in the forefront, cooperatively and aggressively opposed to communism, fascism, or any totalitarian philosophies. Yours very truly, R. H. POWELL, I. A. PECK, _Grand Lodge Representatives, International Association of Machinists, AFL_. Is Mr. Carlson in the hearing room? Call Mr. Carlson, please. You have been sworn. Please be seated. TESTIMONY OF EDWIN A. CARLSON, ACCOMPANIED BY HIS COUNSEL, JAY G. SYKES--Resumed