Memorandum on Jones and Laughlin Steel Plant, Aliquippa, Pennsylvania

As a follow-up on his investigation of the War Production Board’s report of a possible strike on the part of colored employees at the Jones and Laughlin Steel Plant, Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, Mr. G. James Fleming called on Wednesday, September 8. He stated that Mr. Fagan of the War Manpower Commission in Pittsburgh did not report on conditions at the company. Mr. Reginald Johnson stated that “No news is good news,” Mr. Fleming said.

However, Mr. Fleming talked with Mr. Koeval of the War Production Board in Pittsburgh, and the latter felt that, while there might not be any immediate walkout of the men, the situation is critical. Accordingly, Mr. Fleming said he would leave Philadelphia on Friday night for Aliquippa. He stated that he would have a conference with plant employees and Mr. Koeval of the WPB on Saturday.

If it is necessary to deal with the Jones and Laughlin Company, Mr. Fleming stated he would not do so until he had cleared with the War Manpower Commission in accordance with the Agreement.