Memoirs of Akbar Hashemi – January 3, 1985

In the public meeting, the plan to transform the welfare organization into a ministry and transform the head of the program and budget organization into the deputy prime minister was discussed. Due to factionalism in the parliament, this plan has become completely political. Finally, contrary to the Prime Minister's strong desire, [the transformation of the Head of the Program and Budget Organization into] Deputy [Prime Minister] was not accepted and its transformation into an independent ministry was approved, and the rest of the plan was left for the next meeting; Engineer Mousavi is upset. He considers the plan and budget as a means of coordinating the government.

Mr. Badamchian came. In opposition to the government, he believes that the people are dissatisfied with the government. Recently, the conflict between [Mr. Hassan Abedi Jafari] Minister of Commerce and the coalition delegation has intensified.

In the evening, Mr. Hadi Madrasi came. He had suggestions for more facilities for Islamic movements and more contact with Islamic personalities and brought an English book - which was recently written by one of the commanders of the American operation plan about the hostages of the spy den. Colonel [Mustafa] Tarabi came. He brought reports. Mr. Tawakli Bina came. He complained about the non-cooperation of [Mr. Tahmasab Mazaheri], the new head of the [Mustafafan] foundation, with the foundation's housing production company.

Last night, we had a meeting with the Ministers of Interior and Housing and officials of Tehran Municipality and Metro to prepare the preparations for the start of the Tehran Metro. It was agreed to be done with the same government company, affiliated to the Ministry of Interior and the facilities of Tehran Municipality, and suggestions were made regarding falsification of tolls on cars in Tehran, fuel, land, car license plates, increasing the density of areas of Tehran, driving license, etc. A commission was appointed to investigate and give an opinion. At night, I came home. Mr. Prime Minister made a phone call and had a suggestion about limiting the payment of currency due to the severe shortage.