Oral History Interviews with
Robert Marjolin
French economist and civil servant, 1941-55; serving as
Secretary General, Organization for European Economic Cooperation, 1948-55.
May 30, 1964 and July
2, 1971
Summaries of Interviews
May 30, 1964
Marjolin describes the Marshall plan as the beginning of closer European
cooperation. He also discusses the Monnet plan, OEEC, European Customs
Union, Paris Conference of 1947, Greek-Turkish aid, the European Payments
Union, GATT, and Korea.
July 2, 1971
Marjolin discusses the idea of a "third force" -- an economic
force, principally the setting up of a customs union or not -- and Britain's
objections to doing it. He relates his view as to America's opposition
to the British empire, and the "cold war" as the principal factor
in US support of the old colonial empires, and he elaborates on the "special
relationship" between Britain and the United States, talks about
the OEEC and the position of ECA on that organization's strength vis-à-vis
the British's position. Marjolin discusses his position as Secretary General
of the OEEC and his feeling that it should have permanency. Questions
of the relationship of the OEEC to NATO are also considered. The Schumann
plan is also remarked about, as are the Common Market and the Coal and
Steel Community. The influence of Congress upon ECA's actions is also
touched upon. His views of Averell Harriman's relationship with him are
also related.
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