Department of State Atomic Energy Files
Memorandum of Conversation, by the Acting Secretary of State (Webb)
Meeting With the President, Monday, September 26
Atomic Energy
Mr. Kennan gave the President a report on the progress being made in the atomic energy discussions with the British and Canadians and indicated that he believed it might be possible to arrive at an understanding which would be satisfactory to this country. The President was very interested in this report and also in Mr. Gross’ Memorandum of Conversation1 with Senator Vandenberg, which he read. The President approved taking soundings with the Joint Committee on Atomic Energy to determine whether an agreement of the type which it appears possible to obtain would be endorsed and supported by the Committee.
Note: At the Cabinet luncheon immediately following, the President requested me to inform the Cabinet of the status of the atomic energy talks, which I did. The President stated quite frankly to the Cabinet that he believed he had full authority under the law to enter into proper arrangements with the British and Canadians, but that there was a difference of opinion as to the interpretation of the law. For his own part, the President indicated that he thought the provision of the law restricting or limiting his powers in this field was unconstitutional. Both the Vice President and the Attorney General indicated that they thought it would be unwise to proceed without consultation and approval of the Joint Committee at this time. They doubted the feasibility of obtaining any constructive legislation at this session, given the temper and partisan nature of some of the members of the Committee. The President agreed that this was the best procedure and reiterated his instructions to feel out the Committee to see what could be done before reaching any decision.
- Not identified.↩