740.00119 Council/9–1345: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in the United Kingdom (Winant)

7940. Secdel 44. General MacArthur has inquired of the Joint Chiefs of Staff whether there is objection to the publication of the instructions and powers of the Supreme Commander contained in the directive approved by SWNCC,95 with which the Secretary is familiar. (This directive defines the Supreme Commander’s authority toward the Japanese Government under the Potsdam Declaration.)

On August 12 SWNCC approved publication of the directive on the understanding that Presidential approval be obtained and that the Soviet, British and Chinese Governments be informed prior to its publication.

The matter is now before the President.96

Acheson
  1. SWNCC 181/2, p. 712.
  2. President Truman gave his approval on September 17.