Memorandum from Richmond Keech to President Harry S. Truman

THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON July 8, 1946. MEMORANDUM TO THE PRESIDENT: On Friday, July 5th, Ambassador McNutt called me with reference to the War Damage Commission. He stated that a meeting had been called, and on Mr. Delgado's nomination of Mr. Frank Waring as Chairman, Mr. Young suggested that the matter be held in abeyance, inasmuch as he had understood from Mr. Hannegan that he, Young, was to be Chairman. Mr. McNutt stated that he feels that the Commission should be organized and get under way, and asked what the feel- ing in Washington is. I told him that it is your desire that the Commission proceed with all reasonable dispatch and that you had indicated that because of Mr. Waring's experience in the Philippines, as well as his government experience, it would be well for him to be Chairman. I told him also that I knew you had no understanding wi th Mr. Young, and that I did not believe that you had had any conversation with Mr. Hannegan with reference to the matter. I further told McNutt that I knew that you would want the matter handled in a diplomatic manner and that you want the Commission to start functioning as promptly as practicable. Mr. McNutt then stated that he would see to it that the Commission is organized promptly, and that he feels that this can be done without offense to anyone. McNutt also said that Congressman Jasper Bell has left the Philippines and will arrive in Washington on July 11th, bringing two letters relating to the Philippine Loan. McNutt stated that the financial condition of the Philippines is acute and that there is a question of their ability to meet the pay- roll after August 30th. He asked that Congressman Bell be given an appointment with you promptly upon his arrival. I made no commitment, but told him I was sure you would see Bell as prompt- ly as practicable. Mr. McNutt said he and all in attendance at the Inde- pendence celebration were more than sorry that you could not attend; that it was a very moving occasion and one which r6- RECORDS SERVICE