Memorandum, Notes on Last Session with Industry Group

Last Session With Industry Group 4:30 P. M. Dr. Steelman and Mr. Stowe were asked to attend the industry caucus. Upon their arrival Mr. Homer, as chairman of the committee in Mr. Fairless' absence, immediately entered into a rather long discussion questioning the propriety of Dr. Steelman's use of the statement (that is, either reading or giving it to Mr. Murray). This discussion went on for a few minutes with Dr. steelman explaining the function that he as mediator had to perform. Mr. Stowe also indicated that he had made it quite clear at the end of the dictation of the state- ment by Mr. Stephens that Mr. Stephens had not complied with Dr. Steelman's request when he gave only a historical discussion of the New York negotia- tions. Mr. Stephens admitted that was what he had done but that he had also specified that if anything further was wanted, they would comply. It was further pointed out that at a subsequent session Dr. Steelman had discussed the price issue with them and hypothetically had put to them the same question -- that if the price ($4.50) were assured, could this statement of position be considered as an offer as it was in New York -- and that the industry had not dissented from this position. Mr. Randall then became quite incensed stating that at least the matter might have been cleared with them before it was presented to Mr. Murray. At this point Dr. Steelman was quite emphatic that in his role he had been a friend both to the management and to the union and that if anyone felt that he had handled the matter wrong, he wante to know about it right then. The industry members, particularly Mr. Purnell, Adm. Moreell, Mr. Stephens and Mr. Homer indicated they did not feel the matter had