4. Your decision as to the War Department's proposal out- lined in paragraph 2 above (explained in more detail in the attached paper), is necessary to the prompt development of our military re- sources. Your approval could be given with the understanding that the present allocations under Lease-Loan will stand until the strate- gical situation or increased production rates make a new decision advisable. The matter of l05mm howitzers will be discussed with the British Chiefs of Staff as a separate proposition. Indications are that the British will be agreeable to the diversion of these howitzers. /s/ Henry L. Stimson Secretary of War. 1 Enclosure. |