V. I.

Lenin

576

To:   V. M. MOLOTOV FOR MEMBERS OF THE POLITBUREAU OF THE R.C.P.(B.) C.C.

To Comrade, Molotov for members of the Politbureau

Comrade Preobrazhensky told me by phone that he would resign if Krasnoshchekov is appointed second deputy, and
that is also the opinion of the whole Collegium with the
exception, it seems, of Sokolnikov. Stalin believes that
the decision should he confirmed but its execution held
up until Sokolnikov’s return otherwise Krasnoshchekov may he badly badgered. I think that this danger will
remain, unless the Politbureau comes out at once with full
force against the Collegium, and unless it backs up and
supports Krasnoshchekov to the hilt. I consider this question extremely important because a crying mistake is
being made not only by the whole collegium, but also by Preobrazhensky, who are unable to see the need for
making all-round use of a man who, with solid experience
of work in America and in the Far-Eastern Republic, takes
a practical approach to financial matters. That is the most
important thing. That is precisely what Preobrazhensky and the other members of the collegium lack. Their whole
opposition to Krasnoshchekov is a tissue of harmful prejudices. That is why I should favour immediate passage
of the decision on Krasnoshchekov through Soviet channels. [1]

Lenin