NOTE: Meetings Nov. 8, 1946, through Dec. 19, 1946, taken from Notebook (2).
CABINET MEETING, NOVEMBER 8, 1946
THE PRESIDENT
Brought up price and wage control situation. Called on Steelman.
STEELMAN
Said his group has unanimously decided that only rents should remain controlled. Allocation controls however should be kept.
SNYDER
People believe that Congress will throw price controls out the window. In the meantime things are bogged down waiting for that to happen. By turning loose now production may be stepped up--and income of govt increased.
Believes that 3 or 5 months production would be sacrificed if control continued.
SCHWEILENBACH
Agreed.
HARRIMAN
Agreed. His advisory council feels more can be done to get production by voluntary action than by continued price control.
SCHWELLENBACH
Wage controls would have to go off simultaneously.
STEELMAN
His advisory board agrees including Murray & Green.
THE PRESIDENT
It should be done carefully--and not on basis of election results of November 5th.
SCHWELLENBACH
Suggests delay in action until Monday.
STEELMAN
It cannot be done before Monday-- the mechanics must be carefully worked out.
ACHESON
Referred to press release to be issued on Sunday or Monday-- on trade agreements to be negotiated with 18 countries. This will arouse industry. Certain items will appear on lists but before tariffs are changed there will be full hearings and discussion before a board.
Republican leaders will be consulted before release.
FORRESTAL
Brought up maritime strike effect on Alaska. Asked for President's approval to send food in Navy ships to relieve people in Alaska.
10:29