February 11, 1949
Memorandum for the Secretary:
Mr. Webb wanted you to know that Dr. Steelman had told him that someone had introduced a bill in Congress to make Vice President Barkley a member of the National Security Council. Mr. Webb was greatly concerned, because in addition to displacing you as Chairman in the absence of the President, it also, in effect, introduces the Legislature into National Security Council problems.
Mr. Webb said you didn't have to take any action now because he had raised so much fuss that he thought the word would get through to the President on it. However, it needs very careful watching and it may be necessary for you to call the President, or even for the President to veto the bill if it ever gets that far.
It was not know whether Vice President Barkley was involved in any way in submitting the legislation, nor whether or not the President knew of it in advance. In any event, it may be very embarrassing to the President.
M.S.C.
S:MSC:DHM