Our Policy Positions Can't Be Bought
Wednesday, May 10, 2006; Page A24
The May 4 profile of Maurice R. "Hank" Greenberg ["Greenberg as Outsider," Business] implied that the Heritage Foundation muted its opposition to fast-tracking China's entry into the World Trade Organization when Mr. Greenberg "complained" about its position six years ago.
Mr. Greenberg did more than complain. He threatened to withhold his Starr Foundation's grants to Heritage. The Heritage Foundation refused to buckle, and Mr. Greenberg yanked his funding. Heritage soldiered on, maintaining its go-slow, stay-wary posture toward China.
At Heritage, policy positions never have been and never will be for sale. To imply otherwise is insulting and wrong.
JOHN VON KANNON
Vice President for Development
Heritage Foundation
Washington
