needed for this work and must be fed.  Since some German territory is not self-sustaining food 
imports will be necessary.  PWD made the point that present directives permit food imports and 
economic rehabilitation measures when demanded by military considerations.  A narrow interpretation 
of the directive would prevent food imports unless and until industrial unrest is present or 
starvation has been proved.  A broad interpretation would look toward an economic policy designed 
to maintain tolerable living conditions throughout the occupied area.  This would reduce the 
necessity for garrison forces and provide for the maintenance of essential production.  PWD states 
that a narrow interpretation will result in infinitely worse conditions for the population under 
military government than under the Nazis.  PWD states that this would mean large garrison forces 
and that eventually the allies would probably be compelled to introduce widespread relief measures.  
Therefore, it was proposed that the German population generally should be assured that they would 
not starve under allied rule and it was also suggested that military considerations will compel 
the maintenance of employment at as high a level as possible.
 
     During the meeting Abassador Murphy urged that no broadcast or announcement should be made 
which could even remotely be construed as a general committment or long term obligation.  He stated 
his belief that factual news should be employed to demonstrate that there is no starvation or 
brutality under allied rule.
 
     Murphy now states his belief that there should be a wall of complete silence on the Allied 
propaganda front to Germany.