April 7, 1952
MEMORANDUM OF TELEPHONE CONVERSATION
Participants: Mr. Harriman Mr. Acheson
The Secretary telephoned Mr. Harriman following the Secretary's White House appointment today and said he had told the President that Mr. Harriman had some very serious reservations about Dr. Hannah as the Head of the Point IV Program. The main upshot of the conversation was that Mr. Harriman was going to get in touch with the White House and try to see the President to present his views.
During the talk there were a few points that might be of interest. Mr. Acheson emphasized his concern that we get a good man in the position and get him installed quickly.
Mr. Acheson said that if the President decided against Mr. Hannah he, the Secretary, was prepared to settle for Stanley Andrews. He thought he had limitations and would not have a broader view of the Point IV Program than Hannah would for it; in fact, he thought he would very probably have a narrower view. Mr. Harriman said his whole concern was whether Hannah would be personally loyal to the President. He said he would not want to throw a monkey-wrench into the matter.
S:BEvans:mlm