Congress could initially decide that the Wickes and Clemson programmes provide enough destroyers. New classes appearing in foreign fleets might later create pressure to fund more ships. Some vessels built in the 1930s had been authorised under First World War procurement arrangements. Their funding had remained a separate legislative step. Later construction could therefore proceed by funding an existing authorisation.
Notable Point · 54:25-55:31
Destroyer authorisation is separate from funding
The Wickes and Clemson programmes could delay new American destroyers until foreign construction changes Congressional priorities.