In any case where it is sought by subpoena, order, or other compulsory process or other demand of a court or other authority to require the production or disclosure of any record in the files of the Maritime Administration or other information acquired by an officer or employee of the Maritime Administration as a part of the performance of his official duties or because of his official status, the matter shall be immediately referred for determination, through the Secretary of the Maritime Administration and Maritime Subsidy Board, to the Maritime Administrator, Department of Transportation.