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Show 6. In those regions in which the Federal Gov- ernment assumes a major responsibility for the supply of power to distribution systems, this should be recognized as a utility responsibility requiring the planning and financing of new gen- erating capacity, whether hydroelectric or steam- electric, well in advance of the expanding needs of its markets. 7. Where possible without interfering with the meeting of the Federal obligation to afford the people the best possible utilization of the water resources of the basin or region, the responsible Federal agencies should cooperate with public and cooperative systems in furthering their desire to develop water-power resources in connection with the operation of their own systems, with the understanding that all generating capacity will be operated in terms of the best possible regional in- tegration. This will be in general accord with the preferences to public bodies provided in the Federal Power Act. 8. Congress should repeal the provisions of all acts requiring Federal Power Commission ap- proval of rates for the sale of power generated at Federal projects, and in lieu thereof require the Federal Power Commission to submit to the President and Congress annually a detailed re- port covering all Federal power activities, set up in such a way as to provide a clear basis for ap- praising the extent to which the marketing opera- tions are being carried out in accord with the congressional intent. The Commission is convinced that the evolu- tion of Federal power policy testifies to the wisdom of Congress in adapting legislation in this field to the needs of the American people in the power age. The Commission recommends that this evolution be continued along the same lines in order to achieve the major objectives of lowest possible rates, expanding consumption, higher living standards, and more stable regional economies. 246 |