CABINET MEETING, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 1950
Absent:
Snyder
Donaldson
Johnson
McGrath
Early for Johnson
Perlman for McGrath
THE PRESIDENT
Asked Acheson to proceed.
ACHESON
Russians have brought up subject of biological warfare for 1st time. It is tied in with Far East situation. The Communists are indicating further inroads in Indo-China. Feels that we should block further advances of the Russians in Indonesia.
Chapman
Sawyer
V.P.
Tobin
Feel we should take stand.
CHAPMAN
On coal situation says that total reserves are at a very dangerous point. It is crucial in some areas.
TOBIN
Does not know what Lewis is going to do.
STEELMAN
Lewis and his people did discuss the acceptance of fact finding board. Is hopeful that they will reach same agreement to follow President's suggestion.
CHAPMAN
If the miners work 3 days a week we will have all the coal we need. The coal industry is faced with oil and natural gas competition. The oil situation can change overnight and we can be faced with an oil shortage. We are using more oil now that at the highest peak of the war. Farmers are using more tractors and hence more oil and gas. Suggested creation of a commission to study energy resources. Thinks it is important and timely. The coal situation points up the need for study at this time.
THE PRESIDENT
Asked Brannan about potatoes.
BRANNAN
In 1938 we dumped 50 million bushels of potatoes. The present situation is not as serious as at other times.
EARLY
Brought up the case of the Russian spy Dr. Fox (Fuchs) who supplied the Russians with the know how on atomic bomb.
THE PRESIDENT
Read a report that Fox (Fuchs) while with British Mission at Los Alamos learned secrets of atomic energy.
EARLY
Fox (Fuchs) was arraigned in England today.
11:55