CABINET MEETING, FRIDAY, MAY 5, 1950
10:00 am
THE PRESIDENT
Wants to have NSRB placed under the White House. Will make chairman an Executive Assistant to the President. This is under a new reorganization plan. The Board members will now act as an advisory group with full power resident in the chairman. This will relieve the Cabinet members from personal appearances at Board meeting. Cabinet officers may designate others to represent them.
SNYDER
Suggested that Secretary of State be designated as chairman of the Advisory Board in view of fact that Board members are of Cabinet rank.
CHAPMAN
Thinks the change is a good one.
THE PRESIDENT
On western trip - at Ottumwa, Iowa - will make report on State of the Union. At Caspar, Wyoming, will discuss natural resources. At Grand Coulee will talk power development. At Madison will make a peace speech. At Chicago will make a political speech. Will ask Republicans to be an honest opposition. Will take out after splinter party system.
CHAPMAN
Thinks the trip will provide opportunity to stress need for strength of domestic economy.
JOHNSON
Pres. can say with finality that unification is working and is saving money.
ACHESON
The situation is not as tense now as in 1946. It is tenser now than it was in 1948-49 but we must be careful not to leave impression that we are not disturbed by present situation. Russia in 1954 will become very dangerous and may become very aggressive. British and French agree. Our immediate program is designed to strengthen the powers of Western Europe. It is essential that Germany be aligned with Western Europe and against Russia. French British and Dutch have got to have the Commonwealths in Southeast Asia carry burden of defense - and not depend on the U.S. Our burdens are now heavy enough.
JOHNSON
He and Gen Bradley are going to Japan in June. Are considering a visit to Philippines. Are also considering a South American tour in the fall.
CHAPMAN
Hearings on Alaska & Hawaii statehood have been well handled. Some amendments will have to be made. It looks like in 3 weeks both bills will be reported out.
10:57