Lot 53D444
Memorandum of Conversation, by the Special Assistant to the Secretary (Battle)
The Secretary told me today that in his conversation at the White House yesterday he had mentioned to the President that we were considering possible steps to bring about action in the Far East responsive to the needs of the moment. He said he mentioned for the President’s information only, and not for decision, that we were considering some action which might be taken in Japan along the lines taken in Germany by the Occupying Powers giving greater authority to the Government of Japan. He also said [we?] were considering the cueestion of some declaration which might be made of the United States’ interest in the security of Australia and New Zealand.