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The President May 7, 1941
 
      
 
 
I will undoubtedly see a good deal of Leathers as the Prime 
      Minister insists that I keep in touch with all phases of the 
      shipping problem. I sit with a Cabinet Committee which the Prime 
      Minister calls together once a week on the subject.
 
      
 
 
Colonel Moore-Brabazon who takes Beaverbrook's post as Minister 
      of Aircraft Production is an old flyer, a man of ability and 
      drive but far more orderly in his approach. On the whole I expect 
      it will be easier for us to work with the Ministry under the 
      new head than under the old one man rule.
 
      
 
 
Cross, the ex Minister of Shipping, goes to Australia. Menzies 
      picked him.
 
      
 
 
I got to know Menzies well, which is not difficult. He is 
      the type of man you call by his first name almost immediately. 
      His nose was a bit out of joint in London as he wanted to be 
      made a member of the War Cabinet. He seemed a bit soured just 
      before he left. He was one of the few men who talked up to the 
      Prime Minister and had a salutary effect in several situations. 
      Actually the Prime Minister was influenced by Menzies' advice 
      even though he would not admit it.
 
      
 
 
I feel that Menzies' presence here was valuable and hope he 
      comes back although I do not agree with his point of view on 
      all subjects. As these are outside of my assignment, I will not 
      comment. I have had several discussions with Menzies and the 
      Australian High Commissioner, Bruce, on the problems of Australia. 
      I have urged them to present their problems through the appropriate 
      channels in Washington.
 
      
 
 
I have become a general hand holder for all with problems 
      about which they think America might help. It seems to be useful 
      to listen to the stories and I usually find it possible to be 
      of at least a little help in explaining how they can go about 
      the presentation of their problems and to whom.
 
      
 
 
The Prime Minister continues to take me with him on his frequent 
      trips to the devastated cities. He thinks it of value to  %have 
      an American around for the morale of the people. He also wants 
      me to report to you from time to time.