CABINET MEETING, MAY 16, 1947
THE PRESIDENT
Ordered State & War to settle payment of claims of Press Assns. for dollars (10,000) for yen - in order to maintain channels of information out of Japan.
ANDERSON
Described difficulties with Congress in getting a wool bill which the President will sign. Suggests the Pres. call a meeting with Sen. O'Mahoney and then prepare letters to majority leaders in both houses.
The program is being stymied by McCormack and Martin who represent wool market in Boston who have a monopoly on all wool imports.
THE PRESIDENT
Said tanker situation is becoming critical. Will develop and oil famine. There must be an extension of the right to operate tankers by the Maritime Commission. Should be authorized to sell additional tankers to other countries such as England.
MARSHALL
From data on hand the sale of tankers is not only desirable but practical. On other hand the Congress should authorize Maritime to continue tanker operation.
NAVY
The only catch is what number we should sell - primarily to British.
STEELMAN
Suggested that members of Cabinet use influence on Congress to get the authority granted. Chairman Weikel in House is real bottleneck.
THE PRESIDENT
Will call Big Six in on Monday to discuss the problem. Asked State about industrial situation in Germany.
STATE
Latest information is that we are nearing an agreement.