Editorial Note
A study by the Policy Planning Staff, “Certain Aspects of the European Recovery Problem from the United States Standpoint”, top secret, begun in May, was completed on July 23, when what was called a “preliminary report” was submitted to Secretary Marshall. This 62-page study, an extension of the paper of May 23, page 223, presented the matured views of the Planning Staff, which in turn were “based upon the studies, recommendations and suggestions of a wide cross-section of the operating and research units of the Department” [Page 338] The report was designed to clarify the elements of the problem, to suggest approaches by the United States, and to serve other agencies as a guide to the views of the Department of State. A copy bearing the marginal notation “Noted G.C.M.” is in Lot 64 D 563, Box 1 (20027), envelope “Foreign Assistance, 1947–50”.
George F. Kennan, Director of the Policy Planning Staff, prepared a top-secret supplement describing certain additional considerations that contributed to the Staff’s conclusions but that were omitted from the body of the report. A copy of this supplement is in Lot 64 D 563, Box 5 (718), envelope “Foreign Assistance, 1947–50”.