CABINET MEETING, JULY 28, 1950
All present including Symington & Harriman
ACHESON
Malik of Russia announced last night that he will be President of the Security Council U. N. this August and has called for a meeting on the day he takes office. This indicates that Russia has decided to attend meetings which they have up to now been boycotting. Thinks it possible they will try to force admission of Communist China to the U. N.
JOHNSON
Sen Tydings says if President will send him message asking for universal military training he believes it will now pass quickly.
THE PRESIDENT
Has asked for it about 5 times but will write Tydings a letter.
ATTY GEN
Will have a grand jury in session in District of Columbia on continuous session to hear matters relating to national security. Thinks this will forestall a lot of Congressional investigations.
THE PRESIDENT
Approved.
SAWYER
Public looks for and wants price controls. There is no reason for recent price increases. Textiles are up 20%. Rubber is now at high level of 1926. Thinks President should ask for price control and roll back to May or June.
THE PRESIDENT
Wants to wait for Republicans to take a position so that they are on record.
BRANNAN
Thinks he has sugar in Cuba, Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands all tied up and at a fair price. Soybean crop corning up is large so we will have ample fats and oils for our domestic needs.
JOHNSON
Thinks the Defense Dept should buy surpluses which are to spoil rather than go into open market.
THE PRESIDENT
This would require legislation authorizing purchases from Agriculture.
TOB1N
Prices on cocoa beans, hides, lard and other items are up from 20 to 48 per cent since Korean War started. Nylon yarn is up about l00%. Labor is now about to ask for additional wages to meet price increases.
SYMINGTON
Supported Tobin's statement.
BRANNAN
There is no real basis for price increases.
BARKLEY
Control bill will probably be taken up in Senate on next Wednesday.
10:50