Harry Truman

In thanking you for a job well done under these most difficult circumstances, I extend also my very best wishes in connection with the important new responsibilities you are about to assume.

The present arrangements, which have been developed under piecemeal legislation dating as far back as 1870, are inadequate to meet the present requirements of the Government.

The War Assets Administration, therefore, should be terminated at the end of this fiscal year and the remainder of the war surplus property disposal program transferred to a permanent agency.

Disposal operations have been carried on without the uncontrolled dumping of surplus stocks which would have created hazards to business and employment.

I recommend that the Congress now provide for the liquidation of the temporary arrangements for disposing of surplus war property.

The enactment of such legislation will abolish our largest remaining war agency and provide for an orderly liquidation of the present war surplus disposal program.

I am convinced that the Federal Works Agency should be made the central property management agency of the Government, by transferring to it the Bureau of Federal Supply and the remaining war surplus disposal functions of the War Assets…

The Board shall report to the President in accordance with the provisions of section 206 of the said Act on or before March 19, 1948.

We should now give consideration to making a permanent arrangement for disaster relief.

This matter has been on my mind as I have watched the disposal of surplus property held by the War Assets Administration.

Thank you for your timely letter pointing out the danger that the Disaster Surplus Property Program may not provide adequate relief to stricken communities in the future.

I shall continue to see to it that the civil service system is constantly strengthened and that merit and efficiency are rewarded by advancement.

I am convinced that if the Congress puts into effect the recommendations which are included in the Civil Service Commission's report it will be taking action which will serve to further strengthen the civilian career service.

I desire to express my deep appreciation of the splendid service they have rendered during the very difficult transition from war to peace.

In my opinion, the Congress should enact these recommendations into law irrespective of what the final decision may be as to further pay increases for Federal employees generally.

I haven't talked to General Marshall himself, but I have been in touch with the State Department every day since we have been away.

Haven't heard about it.

I have a very, very erudite lecture on architecture that I think you will like.

I assured the Congress, when the Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act was last extended in 1945, that domestic producers would be safeguarded in the process of expanding trade.

I have nothing to say about it.

Every day, except when we were at sea.

No. I prefer not to make any at this time.

All approaches to the settlement of both foreign and domestic affairs; it can't help but do that.

I will answer that question when it happens--if it does.

The foreign situation in general, and the housing program in particular at home, and several other domestic matters that are pending that should have only a nonpartisan approach.