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Johnson at speaking stand
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Cutaway, people looking on
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Johnson speaking
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C.U. Johnson speaking
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Dr. Weaver
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Johnson Speaking
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Prof. Wood looking on
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Weaver talking
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Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: On January 13, President Johnson nominated Robert C. Weaver as his choice to head the new Department of Housing and Urban Development. He will be the first Negro to serve in the Cabinet.

Nomination of the 58-year-old Weaver as Director of the Federal housing programme redeemed a pledge made by President Kennedy four years ago when the late President announced in January, 1962 that he would name Mr. Weaver to the urban affairs post if Congress created the post. At that time, Congress did not establish the post.

Dr. Weaver, who holds a PhD degree from Harvard University, still has to he confirmed by the United States Senate. There is little doubt in Washington that the confirmation will be forthcoming. Dr. Robert Wood was appointed Under Secretary.

The President made the announcement at a surprise, quickly-called new conference. Reporters, assembled for the regular 4 p.m. briefing, were called int the Fish Room of the White House where the ceremony took place.

Dr. Weaver has been administrator of the Housing and Home Finance Agency since he was appointed by President Kennedy in 1961.

The nomination was the end of a long road for Dr. Weaver, who would have headed the Urban affairs department had it been created earlier. Robert Wood is chairman of the department of political science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

President Johnson said, "After looking over 300 outstanding potential candidates, I have come to the conclusion that Robert Weaver is the man for the job."