CABINET MEETING, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 1950
A.G. absent
P.M.G. absent
Perlman for McGrath
GEN BRADLEY
Briefed Cabinet on Korea.
ACHESON
The situation in Indo-China is very bad. The French do not seem to be handling the situation very well. We are doing all we can to assist the French troops in the area.
THE PRESIDENT
McArthur [MacArthur] described the Indo-China situation as "puzzling."
MARSHALL
Mach [Moch] the French Minister of Defense is reported to have said that Marshall has OKayed American troops for Indo-China. There has been no such commitment and there are no plans for American participation at this time.
THE PRESIDENT
Has been thinking of calling Congress back on November 14th instead of the 27th as now scheduled. Wants action on statehood bills - supplemental for Korean rehabilitation - anti-Communist bill - universal training - Selective Service - tax program - among others which the Congress will have more time to act on if given two more weeks to debate .... in this session.
ACHESON
Special session should be called upon to provide funds for Yugoslav drought which is very serious and could well result in losing the friendship of that country.
10:30