In the next council of Ministers, discussion of the agricultural question, then Minister Darré and State secretary Backe present.
Minister von Blomberg: In the fuel industry it is to be decided whether conversion to solid fuels should already be carried out in peace, or whether, as in France, it is to be prepared for the mobilization case. If possible and recommendable, increased use of tar coke [Schwelkok], no diesel oil for railroads.
Prime Minister Goering: Economy also absolutely necessary and to be insisted on in other fields of raw materials.
Minister von Blomberg: Examine as an example substitution of heavy metal by light metal (for instance cans of aluminum): general increase of the use of glass, especially for aerial bombs, maybe also for grenades; use of plastics for wide fields, even as far as transmissions. Certain hopes can be set on China. Therefore prevent political estrangement. Careful advances in the approaching of Japan necessary, at present the recognition of Manchukuo would be disastrous for Mr. Klein's current plans in China.
Prime Minister Goering: Common front of China with Japan against Soviet Russia can probably be produced.
[in green pencil] I did not express myself so specifically BL/
Minister von Blomberg: Japan is doubtful as a factor of military power.
Prime Minister Goering: Furthermore, the danger of Japan's turnabout always exists.
Results of the China affair cannot be viewed clearly because of the unclear inner political situation.
Minister Schacht: always has supported the attempts of Mr. Klein, because he especially hopes for food, raw materials from China.