Documents on Australian Foreign Policy :: Volume 14: Australia and the Postwar World – The Commonwealth, Asia and the Pacific, 1948

1. BEASLEY TO CHIFLEY: 8 January 1948; ‘Cablegram 3 LONDON, 8 January 1948, 5.45 p.m. IMPORTANT SECRET In view of the dollar position I was most concerned to realise after reading C.R.O. [1] telegram D.8 of 5th January, that we have been consulted at no stage during the financial negotiations with Egypt. I immediately spoke sharply to...’
2. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO NOEL-BAKER: 4 February 1948; ‘Cablegram 27 CANBERRA, 4 February 1948, 3 p.m. SECRET Your telegram 23 and 34. [1] Negotiations with India and Pakistan. Following is summary statement of our general policy in relation to conservation of dollars and of the specific steps we have taken and propose to take to reduce our dollar...’
3. BEASLEY TO CHIFLEY: 13 February 1948; ‘Cablegram 39 LONDON, 13 February 1948, 5.50 p.m. SECRET At meeting at Commonwealth Relations Office 13th February High Commissioners requested that Chancellor of Exchequer should take early opportunity reviewing present balance of payments question in particular with view to giving atmosphere for likely future developments to High Commissioners. I made...’
4. CHIFLEY TO BEASLEY: 23 February 1948; ‘Cablegram 22 CANBERRA, 23 February 1948, 5.20 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Your telegram 39. [1] United Kingdom. Balance of Payments Position. I fully agree with your suggestion that, as a supplement to the work of the Sterling Area Statistical Committee, it would be useful to obtain periodically a first hand review...’
5. NIMMO TO WHEELER: 1 March 1948; ‘Letter (extract) [LONDON], 1 March 1948 No doubt you will have read Cable No. 706 which Mighell sent to Chifley either late on Friday or first thing Saturday morning. [1] I drafted it on Friday afternoon in a hurry from notes I took at the meeting. I believe it covered...’
6. NIMMO TO DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY: 1 March 1948; ‘Cablegram 728 LONDON, 1 March 1948, 4.32 p.m. SECRET Our 706 to Prime Minister sent Friday covers nearly every important point mentioned by Cripps. Talk included some window dressing but little prospect of Sterling area even with Marshall Aid on scale at present anticipated, achieving dollar surplus during next 5...’
7. BEASLEY TO CHIFLEY: 27 March 1948; ‘Cablegram 53 LONDON, 27 March 1948, 12.23 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET The chancellor invited me to call on him Thursday evening. He outlined seriousness of present drain on sterling area gold and dollar reserves and emphasised importance of maintaining reserves at highest level prior to receipt of Marshall Aid. He also...’
8. MCFARLANE TO CHIFLEY: 31 March 1948; ‘Cablegram 402 WASHINGTON, 31 March 1948, 6.05 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET 1. Your cable of 31st March. [1] Presume reference referred to are those contained in paragraph 2 of first annexure to cable 61 of 26th February. [2] 2. Annual Drawing Rights of United Kingdom are 81,000,000 of which 75,000,000 drawn,...’
9. BEASLEY TO CHIFLEY: 1 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 55 LONDON, 1 April 1948, 5.21 p.m. SECRET Re your 30. [1] I asked Nimmo contact Wilson Smith of Treasury who was present with Cripps at Thursday’s interview. Wilson Smith agrees that Cripps did make statement which justified me in advising in terms of my 53. Mighell and I...’
10. MCFARLANE TO CHIFLEY: 2 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 413 WASHINGTON, 2 April 1948, 6.28 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Further to my cable 402 [1], I would not interpret Chancellor’s request as preliminary to a change of policy under which Australia and other sterling area countries should rely for dollars solely on respective earnings and drawings from Fund. Such...’
11. NIMMO TO WHEELER: 7 April 1948; ‘Letter (extract) [LONDON], 7 April 1948 I have only today received your letter of 17th March, to which is attached a memorandum setting out instructions given to the New Zealand Supply Mission in London. Clinkard [1] and his team have been active here for some time, but I do not...’
12. WHEELER TO RICHARDSON [1]: 19 April 1948; ‘Letter [CANBERRA], 19 April 1948 DOLLAR STATISTICS AND POLICY Following our recent telephone conversations on the various sets of dollar statistics, our telegram to Nimmo and Bury’s report of the discussions he and Brand [2] had with Haslam [3], I feel that it is worth-while attempting to put on paper...’
13. MINUTE BY ROBERTSON [1]: 22 April 1948; ‘_ UNITED KINGDOM TRADE POLICY The attached file is mainly composed of letters received by the Department of the Treasury from Mr. Nimmo, the Australian Representative on the Sterling Area Statistical Committee. 2. The letters are of a personal nature and do not attempt any comprehensive survey of United Kingdom...’
14. RICHARDSON TO WHEELER: 24 April 1948; ‘Letter (extract) [SYDNEY], 24 April 1948 DOLLAR STATISTICS AND POLICY I commence my reply to your letter of 19th April [1] at paragraph 35 because I want to assure that you do not have to convince me of the need for all of us to understand just what we are...’
15. BEASLEY TO CHIFLEY: 27 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 71 LONDON, 27 April 1948 At my suggestion Cripps was invited to address High Commissioners today on E.R.P. and its effects. Cripps commenced by saying Britain was pleased that Harriman [1] appointed as E.R.P. Representative in Europe. Britain now anticipating E.R.P. Aid at rate of 325m. per annum. Net...’
16. BURY TO WHEELER: 7 May 1948; ‘Letter [LONDON], 7 May 1948 PERSONAL & CONFIDENTIAL [matter omitted] I have cabled a few words on Cripps’s speech in the House last night. I feel myself that the time is coming shortly when some responsible Minister or Ministers should visit London. The fact is that decisions are being made...’
17. COOMBS TO CHIFLEY: 7 May 1948; ‘Memorandum [CANBERRA], 7 May 1948 I attach a note I have prepared on the dollar situation and action which might be taken here particularly from a long-term point of view. I am giving copies of this to Watt [1] and Wheeler of the Treasury and would be glad of an...’
18. WHEELER TO NIMMO: 10 May 1948; ‘Letter (extract) CANBERRA, 10 May 1948 AIR BAG PERSONAL & CONFIDENTIAL I see I must go back to your letter of 10th March, to pick up the thread of comment, so I shall confine myself to selecting some of the more important subjects, rather than dealing with each letter in...’
19. BURY TO WHEELER: 25 May 1948; ‘Letter (extract) [LONDON], 25 May 1948 It would be of interest to us if you could drop a line on anything which transpires in Canberra in connection with a possible conference of Prime Ministers towards the end of the year. The subject keeps appearing in the U.K. Press and is...’
20. BUNTING TO WHEELER: 29 June 1948; ‘Letter [CANBERRA], 29 June 1948 No doubt one of your main London topics will be the preservation of the present sterling area arrangement whereby we are able to have our dollar deficits financed. It may be that the British, with an eye to the absolute level of their reserves, will...’
21. NIMMO TO DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY: 28 June 1948; ‘Cablegram 2131 LONDON, 28 June 1948, 8.15 p.m. SECRET It is becoming clear that the problem of long term dollar viability [for] [1], the Sterling Area as a whole is to a large extent associated in the minds of the United Kingdom Officials with the increasing diversion of the rest...’
22. NOTES BY COOMBS: 28 July 1948; ‘_ NOTES ON PRIME MINISTER’S VISIT TO LONDON AS REPORTED BY MR. WHEELER The general method of work The Prime Minister saw United Kingdom Cabinet Ministers alone, although there were some half a dozen round-table talks at which officials were present, but in the main officials dealt directly with their...’
23. NOEL-BAKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 11 August 1948; ‘Cablegram H343 LONDON, 11 August 1948, 3.25 p.m. IMPORTANT SECRET We think that Commonwealth Governments will wish to be aware of how our thoughts are developing here with regard to certain aspects of our economic planning for the future. The central economic planning staff here has been engaged in working...’
24. MEETING OF INTERDEPARTMENTAL DOLLAR POLICY COMMITTEE: 31 August 1948; ‘Extract [CANBERRA], 31 August 1948 INTERDEPARTMENTAL DOLLAR POLICY COMMITTEE Notes of Meeting held on 31st August, 1948 Present: Dr. Coombs (Chairman) ) Mr. Brown ) Mr. Bunting ) Department of Post-war Reconstruction Mr. Fethers Mr. McCarthy ) Mr. Day ) Department of Commerce and Mr. Carney ) Agriculture Mr. Meere...’
25. COOMBS TO MCFADYEN: 10 September 1948; ‘Letter (extract) [CANBERRA], 10 September 1948 The Prime Minister has decided that I should go to London almost immediately to confer with United Kingdom economic staff on long- term economic plans to deal with the shortage of dollars. The purpose of the consultation is to ensure that Australia and other...’
26. COOMBS TO CHIFLEY: 13 September 1948; ‘Letter [CANBERRA], 13 September 1948 I refer to my memorandum of 7th May, 1948 [1] with which I forwarded you a report dealing with certain aspects of dollar policy, and especially with the need to develop action aimed at a long-term improvement of the dollar position. A series of interdepartmental...’
27. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO NOEL-BAKER: 16 September 1948; ‘Cablegram 252 CANBERRA, 16 September 1948, 5.35 p.m. SECRET Your telegram H.343 [1]-Economic Planning. 1. We are grateful for the full information given in your telegram on your thinking on economic planning for the future and in particular on the programmes which are being prepared to meet American requirements. As...’
28. NOTES BY COOMBS: 22 September 1948; ‘_ NOTES ON FIRST DISCUSSION OF LONG-TERM PROGRAMME Present : Mr. E. A. Hitchman, Chief Planning Staff Mr. R. L. Hall, Economic Section of Cabinet Office Mr. E. Roll, Economic Section of Cabinet Office Mr. J. S. Garner, C.M.G., Acting Assistant Under-Secretary of State, Planning Staff 1952 pattern of world...’
29. COOMBS TO CHIFLEY: 5 October 1948; ‘Letter [LONDON], 5 October 1948 Although discussions here have not yet gone very far, it may be useful if I set out for you my preliminary impressions. I have taken it that my prime function was to find out as much as possible about the U.K.’s long-term plans and to...’
30. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 12 October 1948; ‘Cablegram E20 LONDON, 12 October 1948, 7.08 p.m. SECRET First Plenary Session of Conference [1] was held yesterday afternoon and was devoted to Economic Matters. Cripps gave an admirable survey of the economic position and prospects based on the document entitled ‘Long term programme’, which you have already read. The...’
31. STATEMENT BY EVATT AT PRIME MINISTERS' MEETING: 13 October 1948; ‘LONDON, 13 October 1948 STATEMENT ON ECONOMIC AFFAIRS BY AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION 1. In the preliminary remarks which I made on Monday I expressed my admiration for the clarity of the analysis which the Chancellor of the Exchequer had given us as well as for the achievement which it represented. I...’
32. NOTE OF MEETING WITH PLOWDEN: 14 October 1948; ‘_ NOTE OF A MEETING HELD IN SIR EDWIN PLOWDEN’S ROOM ON 14TH OCTOBER 1948, AT 5 P.M. Present:- Sir Edwin Plowden (in the Chair) Sir Sydney Caine) Mr. T. L. Rowan) Treasure Mr. E. A. Hitchman Central Economic Planning Staff Mr R. L. Hall Economic Section, Cabinet Office Dr....’
33. TANGE TO BURTON: 28 October 1948; ‘Minute [CANBERRA], 28 October 1948 COMMONWEALTH ECONOMIC LIAISON Have you given consideration to the establishment of machinery contemplated by Commonwealth Conference for economic liaison? [1] 2. Presumably there is something to be said for this Department acting promptly when Wheeler and Coombs return next week, and for participating in a...’
34. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 29 June 1949; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 29 June 1949 SECRET Following the conversation I had with yourself, Mr. Dedman, and Mr. Wheeler regarding the present critical financial position of Britain, I would like to submit to you certain relevant considerations. Britain’s problem is, no doubt, created primarily by the loss of her overseas income,...’
35. NOTES BY DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND AGRICULTURE: 1 July 1949; ‘Extract CANBERRA, July 1949 THE DOLLAR PROBLEM SECTION 2 Measures taken by Australia to assist the United Kingdom, or to sustain sterling, which have involved some sacrifice by Australia Throughout and since the war, Australia has had long-term contracts with the United Kingdom covering a number of major commodities. Chief...’
36. WARD TO BURTON: 8 July 1949; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 8 July 1949 I think the main issues arising from the discussion this morning may be summed up as follows:- [matter omitted] If the United States does not take steps to maintain a high level of employment, the United Kingdom and Western Europe simply cannot afford to trade...’
37. DEDMAN TO CHIFLEY: 13 July 1949; ‘Cablegram 1 LONDON, 13 July 1949, 12-45 a.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Received 14 July 1949 Formal opening of the Conference this morning was followed by a meeting of the heads of delegations. Concurrently there were preliminary discussions among officials. At the Ministerial Meeting, Cripps circulated a copy of a communique issued...’
38. TANGE TO BURTON: 14 July 1949; ‘Letter [LONDON], 14 July 194[9] PERSONAL After 36 hours in London I am able to give you an impression of the course of the financial discussions. The position is an unsatisfactory one, and the first day’s discussion was futile. This is not unexpected at meetings, but the important thing on...’
39. DEDMAN TO CHIFLEY: 15 July 1949; ‘Cablegram F6 LONDON, 15 July 1949, 1.59 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Today the Ministers discussed separately the short term problem and longer term policies. Officials had preparatory discussion on longer-term policies. 2. The United Kingdom officials gave more detailed account than hitherto of Cripps-Snyder and Abbott discussions. They confirmed that the...’
40. DEDMAN TO CHIFLEY: 15 July 1949; ‘Cablegram F7 LONDON, 15 July 1949, 11.59 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Received 16 July 1949 The following has been submitted by the United Kingdom as the first draft of an agreed conclusion on the long-term objective. We propose to suggest substantial amendments: 1. That the Commonwealth Finance Ministers welcome the general...’
41. CHIFLEY TO DEDMAN: 16 July 1949; ‘Cablegram F2 CANBERRA, 16 July 1949, 8.35 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Your F6 and F7. [1] The United Kingdom resolution impresses me as being a gesture to reassure United States that British Commonwealth is pursuing same broad objectives as themselves and as such may serve a useful purpose. I take...’
42. CHIFLEY TO DEDMAN: 17 July 1949; ‘Cablegram F3 CANBERRA, 17 July 1949, 4.40 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE Dr. Evatt and I have considered further draft resolution contained in your F7. [1] Regarding paragraph 1, our view is that present conference should not be called upon to give blanket endorsement to conclusions reached by representatives of United States,...’
43. DEDMAN TO CHIFLEY: 17 July 1949; ‘Cablegram F9 LONDON, 17 July 1949, 5.22 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET [matter omitted] 10. From the foregoing [1] it will be seen that the Cripps-Snyder- Abbott communique does not imply any agreement on detailed policy or action. It is merely that in the light of frank exploratory discussions the United...’
44. NOTES OF DISCUSSION: 18 July 1949; ‘LONDON, 18 July 1949 SECRET Notes on Discussion with Mr. S.G. McFarlane, Savoy Hotel, London, 18th July, 1949 Present-Dr. H.C. Coombs, Messrs. S.G. McFarlane, F.H. Wheeler, J.B. Wright 1. Mr. Wheeler outlined the origin of the matter for discussion:- (a) the pressure for sterling devaluation, (b) the possibility that at...’
45. DEDMAN TO CHIFLEY: 18 July 1949; ‘Cablegram F12 LONDON, 18 July 1949, 7.20 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Following is the text of the confidential agreed Minute: 1. The Meeting of the Commonwealth Finance Ministers welcomes the discussions which have taken place between the United Kingdom, Canadian and United States Ministers, and agrees that the aim must be...’
46. DEDMAN TO CHIFLEY: 22 July 1949; ‘Cablegram F16 LONDON, 22 July 1949, 8 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET [matter omitted] 7. I discussed the question of borrowing by Australia with the Chancellor privately and there have been informal exchanges between officials. The Chancellor promised his full support should Cabinet decide on this course. United Kingdom officials have suggested...’
47. CHIFLEY TO ATTLEE: 8 August 1949; ‘Cablegram 136 [CANBERRA], 8 August 1949, 1.45 p.m. PRIORITY TOP SECRET Begins:- Since our delegation returned we have been giving urgent attention to the recommendations of the London Financial Conference. The re-examination of our dollar import budget with a view to effecting the maximum practicable savings has not yet been...’
48. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 16 August 1949; ‘Cablegram 126 LONDON, 16 August 1949, 1.15 a.m. TOP SECRET I can certainly assure you of our full assistance in any request you make to the International Monetary Fund. As to the timing of such a request, I think there would now be considerable advantage in not putting it forward...’
49. WHEELER TO DEDMAN: 17 August 1949; ‘Memorandum [CANBERRA], 17 August 1949 AUSTRALIA’S MEMBERSHIP OF THE STERLING AREA In response to your request, I am attaching copy of some notes setting out reasons why it would be to Australia’s disadvantage to withdraw from the Sterling Area dollar pool. You will see that in the notes the flexibility...’
50. STRAHAN TO CHIFLEY: 19 August 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 19 August 1949 CONFIDENTIAL AGENDUM NO. 1625 Report on London Financial Conference I am directed to refer to the discussion which took place in Cabinet today in relation to the above subject. Cabinet approved that the other Governments represented at the London Conference of Commonwealth Finance Ministers be...’
51. CHIFLEY TO WILLIAMS: 1 September 1949; ‘Letter [CANBERRA], 1 September 1949 TOP SECRET I refer to your memorandum of 22nd August on proposals relating to the liberalisation of intra-European trade and the relaxation of Section 9 of the Anglo-American Financial and Economic Agreement. 2. I very much appreciate your Government’s action in approaching us on this...’
52. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO POSTS [1]: 19 September 1949; ‘CANBERRA, 19 September 1949, 11 a.m. UNCLASSIFIED The following is the text of an announcement made by the Prime Minister this morning. ‘The United Kingdom Government has announced that the exchange rate between the United States dollar and the pound sterling will be two dollars eighty (2.80) to pound (S1)....’
53. MCFARLANE TO CHIFLEY: 4 October 1949; ‘Cablegram 960 WASHINGTON, 4 October 1949, 10.31 p.m. EMERGENCY TOP SECRET My cable 940. [1] Before the week-end Bolton advised delaying approach for two or three weeks as American attitude to drawing generally was unchanged for a variety of monetary and political reasons. In particular Congress had been dealing out...’
54. CHIFLEY TO MCFARLANE: 7 October 1949; ‘Cablegram 572 CANBERRA, 7 October 1949, 7 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Drawing from International Monetary Fund, I have carefully Considered your telegrams 960 [1] and 961 [2] Outlining your discussions with Martin and Southard. Whilst I am anxious to obtain the drawing as soon as possible, I do not feel...’
55. MCFARLANE TO CHIFLEY: 19 October 1949; ‘Cablegram 1027 WASHINGTON, 19 October 1949, 1.04 p.m. EMERGENCY SECRET Board approved drawing 20 million United States dollars without any special condition. I foreshadowed further request minimum 20 million. No publicity here but you are free to announce at any time. 2. Southard stated that because the repurchase mechanism is...’
56. CHIFLEY TO CRIPPS: 4 November 1949; ‘Message [CANBERRA], 4 November 1949 TOP SECRET In your message of 24th October, you asked me to let you have a forecast of Australia’s dollar balances of payments for 1949/50 and for the calendar year 1950 and in my reply on 25th October I undertook to supply as soon as...’
57. HIGH COMMISSION IN NEW DELHI TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 26 February 1948; ‘Cablegram 95 NEW DELHI, 26 February 1948 The draft constitution published today describes India as a sovereign republic but in a footnote, (which seems to be intended to obtain public reactions), the draft constitution explains that the future relationship between the republic and the British Commonwealth remains to be decided...’
58. GORDON WALKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 13 April 1948; ‘Cablegram G10 (extract) LONDON, 13 April 1948, 5.27 p.m. IMMEDIATE CONFIDENTIAL My despatch of 11th February G.3. Ceylon no.3. British Nationality Bill. 1. Government of India have asked that in clause 1 use of term ‘British Subject’ may be reconsidered with a view to replacing it by some such term...’
59. DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION TO GORDON WALKER: 23 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 104 CANBERRA, 23 April 1948, 5.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE Your cablegram G.10 of 13th April, 1948, regarding British Nationality Bill. [1] Indian proposal has been carefully and sympathetically considered in light of views expressed in your cablegram. We feel bound to say, however, that your proposal that Bill should be...’
60. NOTE BY MACKAY OF INTERVIEW WITH NEHRU: 24 May 1948; ‘NEW DELHI, 24 May 1948 NOTE ON INTERVIEW BY THE HIGH COMMISSIONER WITH MR. NEHRU, PRIME MINISTER OF THE INDIAN UNION ON MAY 22ND, 1948 Mr. Nehru said that he wished to speak to me about the attitude of India towards Great Britain and the other nations in the Commonwealth,...’
61. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 20 August 1948; ‘Cablegram E15 LONDON, 20 August 1948, 8.35 p.m. PERSONAL TOP SECRET BROOK’S VISIT. [1] Noel-Baker discussed with me new and tentative suggestions as to future relationships of British Nations which have been put forward mainly by India and under which status of the King would be altered in important respects....’
62. GARNETT TO STRAHAN: 5 November 1948; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 5 November 1948 CONFIDENTIAL I am directed by the Acting High Commissioner to say that in view of recent speculation in the United Kingdom Press about proposals alleged to have been discussed recently in London by Pandit Nehru and certain other United Kingdom and Commonwealth Ministers for India’s...’
63. HIGH COMMISSION IN NEW DELHI TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 9 November 1948; ‘Cablegram 442 NEW DELHI, 9 November 1948 A broad survey which Nehru gave yesterday to the Constituent Assembly contained the following points: (i) He had entered into no commitment in London with regard to India’s membership of the Commonwealth; this was essentially a matter for the Constituent Assembly. Possibly the...’
64. BURTON TO EVATT: 18 November 1948; ‘Cablegram E96 CANBERRA, 18 November 1948, 9.45 a.m. TOP SECRET After perusal of cables regarding Commonwealth Prime Ministers’ Conference [1] and subsequent messages on Commonwealth relations, I feel that we may tend to overlook importance of Pakistan. So long as Pakistan remains a member of the Commonwealth I think Indian...’
65. BEASLEY TO CHIFLEY: 18 November 1948; ‘Cablegram Austdel 246 PARIS, 18 November 1948, 7.20 p.m. TOP SECRET STRICTLY PERSONAL The Indian Talks continued late last evening 17th November. [1] Noel-Baker, Fraser, Pearson, Bert [2] and myself and Bajpai (Secretary, Department of External Affairs in India) were present. Bert, Fraser and Pearson put to Bajpai their anxiety...’
66. NOEL-BAKER TO EVATT: 26 November 1948; ‘Letter LONDON, 26 November 1948 TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL I think that you will wish to know the progress that has been made in discussions with the Government of India about India’s future relation to the Commonwealth since our talk with Sir G. S. Bajpai in Paris on the 17th...’
67. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 17 December 1948; ‘Cablegram 4469 LONDON, 17 December 1948, 10.40 p.m. PERSONAL SECRET On 15th December, I participated in a discussion of the position of India with the Prime Minister, Lord Chancellor, Noel-Baker, Fraser and Pearson. We had before us a revision of Nehru’s earlier memo of 28th October re the relation of...’
68. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 28 February 1949; ‘Cablegram Special El NEW DELHI, 28 February 1949, 8.55 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Nehru has spoken to me about Attlee’s suggestion for proposed Commonwealth talks in London for finding satisfactory basis for continuing the association of India with the British Commonwealth. Attlee also mentioned to Nehru the idea of sending...’
69. CABINET SUBMISSION: 7 April 1949; ‘Agendum 1586 CANBERRA, 7 April 1949 TOP SECRET INDIA AND THE BRITISH COMMONWEALTH The Problem The Indian Government is quite firm in its statements that India will be a Republic. The draft constitution leaves the question open as to India’s relations with the British Commonwealth. The Prime Minister of India...’
70. HIGH COMMISSION IN LONDON TO HOLLOWAY AND DEDMAN: 22 April 1949; ‘Cablegram 1 63 7 LONDON, 22 April 1949, 10.57 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET At the first session of the Prime Minister’s Conference this morning, which followed many exchanges of views on a personal basis during yesterday, Nehru set out the problem and indicated in broad terms his proposals. 2. He...’
71. EVATT TO BEASLEY: 23 April 1949; ‘Cablegram E6 NEW YORK, 23 April 1949 MOST IMMEDIATE This morning Saturday I have received telegram despatched from London Friday night. [1] I would suggest the following comments. 1. Mr. Chifley’s statement in paragraph 4 of telegram fairly expressed general objectives of Australia’s policy in relation to India. 2. The...’
72. HIGH COMMISSION IN LONDON TO HOLLOWAY AND DEDMAN: 25 April 1949; ‘Cablegram 1646 LONDON, 25 April 1949, 11 p.m. IMMEDIATE CONFIDENTIAL At the second meeting of the Prime Ministers held today, Monday, several drafts were circulated all of them in the general form of a declaration by India accepting the King as a symbol of the free association of the independent...’
73. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 27 April 1949; ‘P.M.M. (49) 6th Meeting LONDON, 27 April 1949 SECRET [matter omitted] 2. Commonwealth Objectives MR. FRASER said that it would be appropriate if, before the Meeting concluded, the representatives of Commonwealth Governments could re-affirm their unity of purpose in pursuit of the positive aims of the Commonwealth association. The Commonwealth...’
74. HIGH COMMISSION IN LONDON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 27 April 1949; ‘Cablegram 1675 LONDON, 27 April 1949, 2.25 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE My immediately preceding telegram. Approved text of final communique. BEGINS. During the past week, the Prime Ministers of the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, Pakistan and Ceylon, and the Canadian Secretary of State for External Affairs have...’
75. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 14 October 1948; ‘Cablegram Special El 7 (extract) LONDON, 14 October [1948], 8 p.m. PERSONAL 5. Representatives of Eire have telegraphed Attlee asking to meet representatives of British Commonwealth. They are anxious to preserve their rights in the event of repeal of External Relations Act. [1] I suspect true object is to remain...’
76. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 17 October 1948; ‘Cablegram Special E18 LONDON, 17 October 1948, 11.30 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET PERSONAL 1. Following my telegram 17, a lengthy meeting on Eire’s relationship with the British Commonwealth took place to-day at Chequers. Attlee presided and Saint Laurent, Fraser and I were present. Dominion representation was confined to Canada, Australia...’
77. DIGNAM TO EVATT: 8 November 1948; ‘Dispatch 82 (extract) [DUBLIN], 8 November 1948 In continuation of despatches No. 75, 79, 80 regarding the intention of the Government of Eire to repeal the External Relations Act, I desire to inform you that there has been a spate of statements issued by political leaders not only in Dublin...’
78. HEYDON TO BURTON AND CHIFLEY: 15 November 1948; ‘Cablegram Austdel 216 PARIS, 15 November 1948, 4.40 p.m. TOP SECRET On 12th November United Kingdom Attorney-General indicated that it was proposed to send a communication to the Eire Government which would probably be published outlining the important consequences which might result from the repeal of the External Relations Act...’
79. HEYDON TO BURTON: 17 November 1948; ‘Cablegram Austdel 237 PARIS, 17 November 1948 IMMEDIATE SECRET On 16th November discussions were completed on the position which will result when the External Relations Act is repealed by Parliament in Dublin. At first the United Kingdom view was that this would immediately result in Eire being legally a foreign...’
80. BEASLEY TO CHIFLEY: 17 November 1948; ‘Cablegram unnumbered PARIS, 17 November 1948, 7.40 p.m. PRIORITY IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET STRICTLY PERSONAL Reports of the Irish and Indian talks in Paris have now reached you but I wish to add that their handling by British Ministers has not been in keeping with the views of the Doc [1],...’
81. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 23 November 1948; ‘Cablegram Austdel 262 PARIS, 23 November 1948, 4 a.m. IMMEDIATE RESTRICTED As the messages will have informed you, the position with regard to Eire has changed very rapidly as a result of the recent talks in Paris by Peter Fraser, Pearson of Canada and Beasley and myself with United Kingdom...’
82. HEYDON TO BURTON: 23 November 1948; ‘Cablegram Austdel 275 PARIS, 23 November 1948, 6.30 p.m. IMMEDIATE CONFIDENTIAL PERSONAL You may not have heard that the Prime Minister of Eire, Mr. Costello, prefaced his second reading speech by paying high tribute to Dr. Evatt’s work in endeavouring to find a maximum basis of agreement between the British...’
83. HEYDON TO BURTON: 29 January 1948; ‘Letter (extract) LONDON, 29 January 1948 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL On our general work on policy questions I think it would be best to list the people who have been pretty regularly my sources of information (a) Under Secretaries of State C.R.O. (Machtig and Carter), Deputy Asst. Under Secretaries of State,...’
84. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 18 October 1948; ‘PMM(48) 7th Meeting (extracts) LONDON, 18 October 1948 SECRET 3. Commonwealth Consultation MR. ATTLEE said that there appeared to be a general desire to examine the existing methods of consultation between Commonwealth Governments, in order to see whether they met the requirements of the present situation or whether they could...’
85. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 20 October 1948; ‘PMM(48) 12th Meeting (extract) LONDON, 20 October 1948 SECRET 2. Commonwealth Consultation (Previous Reference P.M.M. (48) 8th Meeting, Minute 1.) MR. ATTLEE said that a note (P.M.M. (48) 13), prepared by the Secretary after consultation with officials of all the Delegations, had been circulated covering a detailed statement of the...’
86. BEASLEY TO EVATT: 22 October 1948; ‘Cablegram LONDON, 22 October 1948 MOST IMMEDIATE Following are comments on discussion at Prime Ministers’ meeting this morning on changes suggested by you. [1] Paragraph 3. Amendment substituting ‘fully effective’ for ‘more effective’ in relation to work of the United Nations accepted. Discussion on paragraph 6 relating to Western Union...’
87. BEASLEY TO EVATT: 22 October 1948; ‘Cablegram LONDON, 22 October 1948 MOST IMMEDIATE _The Final Plenary Session of the Meeting of Commonwealth Prime Ministers was held at No. 10, Downing Street this morning. At the end of the meeting the representatives of the other Commonwealth Governments placed on record their sincere thanks to the Prime Minister...’
88. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 24 October 1948; ‘Cablegram 3746 LONDON, 24 October 1948, 10.35 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET AND PERSONAL The achievements of the Prime Ministers’ Conference were, I think considerable. 1. There is no substantial difference in the general approach to the Foreign Policy. While one or two Delegations emphasized opposition to Communist expansion, the majority emphasized...’
89. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 26 October 1948; ‘Cablegram E21 LONDON, 26 October 1948, 1-50 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET My immediately following telegram contains text of final statement on Commonwealth consultation submitted by meeting for endorsement by all Governments. We tried hard to get recommendation published but South Africa and Canada prevented this, arguing that premature publication would tend...’
90. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 26 October 1948; ‘Cablegram E22 LONDON, 26 October 1948, 3.3 5 p.m. IMPORTANT SECRET My immediatly preceding telegram. Following is text. Begins- COMMONWEALTH CONSULTATION Discussions during meeting have demonstrated the value to Commonwealth Governments of consultation with one another on foreign and economic affairs, defence and other matters of common concern. Although the...’
91. HEYDON TO BURTON: 27 October 1948; ‘Letter LONDON, 27 October 1948 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL You will have seen the text of the final statement on Commonwealth Consultation coming out of the meeting of Prime Ministers. The Minister and Mr. Beasley were very active on this indeed and the inclusion of the sub-paragraphs regarding access for High...’
92. HARRY TO WHEELER: 24 November 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 24 November 1949 SECRET BRITISH COMMONWEALTH CONFERENCE, CEYLON-JANUARY 1950 As you will have seen, the Ceylon Government has issued invitations to Commonwealth countries for a meeting of Commonwealth Foreign Ministers to be held at Colombo in January 1950. This is the first in the series of regular Commonwealth...’
93. REPORT TO MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 19 October 1948; ‘PMM(48) 14 LONDON, 19 October 1948 SECRET STATUS OF HIGH COMMISSIONERS Report of the Committee of High Commissioners and Officials We were invited by the Prime Ministers’ Meeting to consider certain questions in connection with the status of High Commissioners [1] in the light of- (a) a note by the...’
94. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO COMMONWEALTH RELATIONS OFFICE: 23 December 1948; ‘Cablegram. 333 CANBERRA, 23 December 1948, 2 p.m. RESTRICTED Reference conclusions reached at recent meeting of Commonwealth Prime Ministers re status of High Commissioners [1], Australian Government proposes make following recommendation to His Majesty the King (a) that High Commissioners be placed in same order of precedence as at present...’
95. SUBMISSION BY DEDMAN TO COUNCIL OF DEFENCE: 12 March 1948; ‘Agendum 2/1948 12 March 1948, SECRET CO-OPERATION IN BRITISH COMMONWEALTH DEFENCE 1. INTRODUCTION At its meeting on 3rd July 1947, the Council noted the Memorandum of 23rd May 1947 on Co-operation in British Commonwealth Defence [1], containing the proposals of the Australian Government on the matters which were discussed on...’
96. SUBMISSION BY DEDMAN TO COUNCIL OF DEFENCE: 14 April 1948; ‘Supplement 1 to Agendum 1/1948 CANBERRA, 14 April 1948 TOP SECRET THE STRATEGIC POSITION OF AUSTRALIA REVIEW BY THE CHIEFS OF STAFF COMMITTEE In the appreciation of the Strategical Position of Australia by the Chiefs of Staff Committee [1], which was circulated under Agendum No. 1/1948, the Chiefs of Staff...’
97. CONCLUSIONS OF THE COUNCIL OF DEFENCE: 20 April 1948; ‘CANBERRA, 20 April 1948 TOP SECRET THE STRATEGIC POSITION OF AUSTRALIA-REVIEW BY THE CHIEFS OF STAFF COMMITTEE Conclusions of the Council of Defence 20th April 1948 Consideration was given to the appreciation of the Strategical Position of Australia by the Chiefs of Staff Committee. [1] The observations and conclusions of...’
98. CHIFLEY TO ATTLEE: 24 May 1948; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 24 May 1948 TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL Thank you for your letter of 3rd December, 1947 [1], a reply to which has been deferred pending consideration of a basis on which strategic planning can be commenced by the Australian Defence Machinery in consultation with the United Kingdom and...’
99. BOASE TO SHEDDEN: 6 July 1948; ‘Letter LONDON, 6 July 1948 TOP SECRET DEFENCE CO-OPERATION 1. With reference to your letter No. 47/1948 dated 2[4]th May 48 [1], the Strategical Appreciation by the Australian Chiefs of Staff [2], together with the Conclusions of the Council of Defence thereon [3] is being examined by the United Kingdom...’
100. MEMORANDUM FOR MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 23 September 1948; ‘PMM (48) 1 LONDON, 23 September 1948 TOP SECRET THE WORLD SITUATION AND ITS DEFENCE ASPECTS Memorandum by the United Kingdom Government THE Charter of the United Nations, signed at San Francisco in 1945, announced as the first of the purposes of the United Nations the maintenance of international peace...’
101. CHIFLEY TO EVATT: 13 October 1948; ‘Cablegram E79 CANBERRA, 13 October 1948, 5.10 p.m. TOP SECRET PART A We have had only a brief opportunity to study the United Kingdom views put forward with regard to the world situation and its defence aspects in the paper PMM.(48)1. [1] The following is a summary of the statements...’
102. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 20 October 1948; ‘PMM (48) 11th Meeting LONDON, 20 October 1948, 11 a.m. TOP SECRET CONFIDENTIAL ANNEX MR. ATTLEE said that the discussions on foreign affairs had been an essential preliminary to the consideration of defence problems. At the outset of the Meeting, the United Kingdom Government had circulated a paper (P.M.M.(48)1) [1]...’
103. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 20 October 1948; ‘PMM (48) 12th Meeting (extract) LONDON, 20 October 1948, 3 p.m. TOP SECRET CONFIDENTIAL ANNEX MR. LOUW said that he had already dealt with certain aspects of defence in the discussion on foreign affairs on the previous day. The Government of the Union of South Africa were fully conscious of...’
104. REPORT BY DEFENCE COMMITTEE: 11 November 1948; ‘Attachment ‘A’ to Defence Committee MELBOURNE, 11 November 1948 Minute 252/1948 TOP SECRET REPORT BY THE DEFENCE COMMITTEE ON UNITED KINGDOM PAPER P.M.M. (48) 1 [1]-THE WORLD SITUATION AND ITS DEFENCE ASPECTS PART I- GENERAL DEFENCE POLICY AND STRATEGY [matter omitted] [2] Relationship of Australian Defence Policy to United Kingdom...’
105. CHIFLEY TO ATTLEE: 10 December 1948; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 10 December 1948 TOP SECRET Thank you for Paper PMM(48)1-The World Situation and its Defence Aspects [1]-which I received just before the recent Conference of Commonwealth Prime Ministers in London. The Defence Committee has considered the information and suggestions contained in your paper and I am enclosing a...’
106. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 29 December 1948; ‘Letter LONDON, 29 December 1948 TOP SECRET You sent me with your letter of the 24th May about defence co- operation [1], copies of two memoranda produced by the Australian Council of Defence. [2] We have studied these memoranda with great interest; but I deferred sending any comments on them...’
107. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 31 January 1949; ‘Letter LONDON, 31 January 1949 TOP SECRET We have studied with great interest the Report [1] which you sent me under cover of your letter of the 10th December, 1948 [2], giving the views of the Australian Defence Committee on the United Kingdom Government’s Memorandum ‘World [Situa]tion and its Defence...’
108. CHIFLEY TO ATTLEE: 7 February 1949; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 7 February 1949 TOP SECRET Thank you for your letter of 29th December 1948 [1] and the attachment containing the comments of the United Kingdom Chiefs of Staff [2], on the two Council of Defence memoranda of 20th April 1948. [3] 2. Subject to anything you may wish...’
109. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 4 April 1949; ‘Letter LONDON, 4 April 1949 TOP SECRET Thank you for your letters of the 7th and 16th February about defence matters. [1] We are very glad that you welcome our proposal that a United Kingdom planning team should visit Australia for discussions with the Australian Service authorities. We agree, of...’
110. DEFENCE COMMITTEE [1] MINUTE 73/1949: 5 May 1949; ‘Agendum 15/1949 Supplement 5 MELBOURNE, 5 May 1949 TOP SECRET STRATEGIC PLANNING IN RELATION TO CO-OPERATION IN BRITISH COMMONWEALTH DEFENCE UNITED KINGDOM DEFENCE APPRECIATION AS A BASIS FOR MILITARY PLANNING BETWEEN COMMONWEALTH MILITARY STAFFS INTRODUCTION At its meeting on the 3rd March, 1949, the Defence Committee took note of a...’
111. DEFENCE COMMITTEE AGENDUM: 15 September 1949; ‘68/1949 Supplement 2 [MELBOURNE], 15 September 1949 TOP SECRET STRATEGIC PLANNING IN RELATION TO BRITISH COMMONWEALTH DEFENCE THE BASIC OBJECTIVES OF BRITISH COMMONWEALTH DEFENCE POLICY AND GENERAL STRATEGY At its meeting on 16th August, 1949, the Defence Committee endorsed a paper prepared by the Joint Planning Committee [1], relative to...’
112. STUART TO BURTON: 21 July 1949; ‘Letter SINGAPORE, 21 July 1949 TOP SECRET & PERSONAL In recent weeks there has been almost a revolution in strategic thinking in Singapore, and I believe this is of sufficient significance to be worth your following up in Australia. Briefly this is the position. 2. When I arrived in Singapore...’
113. DEFENCE COMMITTEE AGENDUM: 26 September 1949; ‘Agendum 12311949 [MELBOURNE], 26 September 1949 SECRET LONG RANGE WEAPONS PROJECT Draft Memorandum of Arrangements Between Australian and U.K. Governments in Regard to the Allocation of the Costs of the Long Range Weapons Project INTRODUCTION 1. Attached, as Appendix ‘A’, is a copy of a Memorandum of Arrangements between the...’
114. EVATT TO BEASLEY: 15 January 1948; ‘Cablegram 6 (extract) CANBERRA, 15 January 1948, 3.50 p.m. PERSONAL TOP SECRET Your No. 6 of 12th January. Approach by Pakistan representative. In conformity with Government policy, the export of arms is not being permitted to any country and no exception can be made of India, Pakistan or any Indian...’
115. BURTON TO KENNEDY [1]: 21 January 1948; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 21 January 1948 TOP SECRET As a result of approaches by oversea Governments with a view to obtaining arms and warlike stores from Australia, careful consideration has been given to the policy which should be adopted in regard to such requests. [2] 2. New situations have arisen, particularly...’
116. HIGH COMMISSION IN NEW DELHI TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 10 February 1948; ‘Cablegram 77 NEW DELHI, Lo February 1948, 11.50 p.m. TOP SECRET In conversation with the High Commissioner today Bajpai asked that enquiries regarding the following matters be made of the Australian Government. 2. Indian political representative in Japan had reported that two Indian officers sent to Tokyo to procure warlike...’
117. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MACKAY: 13 February 1948; ‘Cablegram 43 CANBERRA, 13 February 1948 TOP SECRET Your telegram 77 [1] regarding India’s share in surplus B.C.O.F. stores. The position is as follows:- 1. In response to an enquiry regarding the disposal of surplus B.C.O.F. stores, the Australian contingent in Tokyo was informed on 8th January that the whole...’
118. CABINET SUBMISSION BY CHIFLEY [1]: 30 August 1948; ‘Agendum 1504A [2] CANBERRA, 30 August 1948 TOP SECRET EXPORT OF WARLKE STORES Arising out of the question of the sales of ammunition, equipment, etc. to the Netherlands East Indies authorities, the Minister for External Affairs wrote to the Acting Minister for Defence (letter dated 14th February 1946, copy to...’
119. BURTON TO SHEDDEN: 19 September 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 19 September 1949 SECRET DEFENCE CO-OPERATION WITH INDIA AND PAKISTAN Since the cessation of hostilities in Kashmir Australia, as you are aware, has extended certain measures of defence co-operation to India and Pakistan. Hitherto it has been our intention that the Government of each of these countries should...’
120. BURTON TO EVATT: 15 April 1948; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 15 April 1948 TOP SECRET DEFENCE COUNCIL Shedden spoke to me about arrangements which might be made for the preparation by the Chiefs of Staff of strategic appreciations. He argued that, unless they had a political appreciation reflecting Government foreign policy, they could not make a strategic appreciation...’
121. CHIFLEY [1] TO DEDMAN: 6 October 1948; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 6 October 1948 TOP SECRET It has been the practice in the past for the Department of External Affairs to prepare at regular intervals for the Higher Defence Organisation reviews of the world situation to assist in the preparation of defence plans and appreciations. Such a review was...’
122. JOINT INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEE APPRECIATION 2/1948: 24 November 1948; ‘MELBOURNE, 24 November 1948 SECRET STRATEGIC POSITION OF AUSTRALIA-PROBABLE FORM AND SCALE OF ATTACK INTRODUCTION 1. The Defence Committee in minute No. 157/1948 laid down the zone which, for planning purposes, should be regarded as the ‘zone of strategic planning for which Australia accepts responsibility’ (hereafter referred to as the...’
123. MOODIE TO BURTON: 24 November 1948; ‘Note CANBERRA, 24 November 1948 The attached papers [1] were discussed at J.I.C. meeting today. [2] You’ll see that there are many things quite out of line with us. Apart from a few amendments the C’ttee all agreed to the paper. I have made it clear that I’m not in...’
124. JOINT INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEE APPRECIATION 3/1948: 5 January 1949; ‘Extract MELBOURNE, 5 January 1949 TOP SECRET APPRECIATION OF THE STRATEGIC POSITION OF AUSTRALIA-POSSIBILITY OF WAR AND CONSEQUENT THREAT TO AUSTRALIA (Revising Joint Intelligence Committee Appreciation No. 1/1947 of 27th March, 1947. [1]) OBJECT 1. To assess the possibility of war and consequent threat to Australia. DATE OF PREPARATION OF...’
125. MOODIE TO BURTON: 1 February 1949; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 1 February 1949 The attached appreciation [1] is the final form of the document which was considered in the Joint Intelligence Committee last November and subsequently discussed with the Joint Planning Committee. Certain amendments have been made. The main points appear on pages 2 and 3 [2] from...’
126. NOTES BY COLEMAN FOR DEFENCE COMMITTEE: 14 February 1949; ‘Agendum 14/1949 MELBOURNE, 14 February 1949 TOP SECRET THE STRATEGIC POSITION OF AUSTRALIA INTRODUCTION This Agendum covers an Appreciation by the J.I.C. on the ‘Strategic Position of Australia-Possibility of War and Consequent Threat to Australia’. [1] The Joint Planning Committee has submitted the Appreciation to the Defence Committee for information...’
127. DEDMAN TO HOLLOWAY [1]: 22 April 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 22, April 1949 TOP SECRET I would refer to my letter of 23rd November, 1948, in which I promised to let you have further views with regard to the survey of political events and trends in South East Asia which you forwarded for my perusal on 6th October...’
128. MOODIE TO WIADROWSKI [1]: 24 May 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 24 May 1949 TOP SECRET I refer to J.I.C. Agendum No. 92 dated 17th May, 1949, regarding a direction from the Defence Committee to the Joint Planning Committee to produce a paper entitled ‘An Overall Concept for Australian Strategy’. 2. I shall be unable to attend the meeting...’
129. MOODIE TO WIADROWSKI: 23 June 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 23 June 1949 TOP SECRET I have received and perused a copy of J.I.C. Appreciation No. 5 regarding ‘Implications of the Spread of Communism in China’. [1] 2. As you are aware, I was not able to be present during the discussion of this Appreciation, but feel that...’
130. JOINT INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEE APPRECIATION 5/1949: 15 July 1949; ‘Extracts [1] MELBOURNE, 15 July 1949 [2] TOP SECRET STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS OF THE SPREAD OF COMMUNISM IN CHINA AND ITS EFFECT ON SOUTH EAST ASIA INTRODUCTION As requested by minute dated 16th May, 1949, we have prepared for the information of the Joint Planning Committee an Appreciation on the above...’
131. BURTON TO SHEDDEN: 7 November 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 7 November 1949 CONFIDENTIAL As you are aware the Government is faced with a number of problems current in the Pacific and South-East Asia area, notably its relations with the new regime in China, the prospects of a Japanese Peace Treaty, the future development of the United States...’
132. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO POSTS: 10 November 1949; ‘Cablegram unnumbered CANBERRA, 10 November 1949, 7.45 p.m. The following was released to the Press 7 p.m. E.S.T. 10th November. Begins:- ‘A meeting of representatives and officials of the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Australian Governments commenced today at Canberra, and at six o’clock adjourned until tomorrow. Dr. Evatt presided,...’
133. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS WORKING PAPER [1]: 13 November 1949; ‘CANBERRA, 13 November 1949 SECRET AUSTRALIA AND SOUTH-EAST ASIA The important changes that are taking place throughout Asia are bound to have fundamental consequences for Australia, and call for a thorough re-examination of Australia’s relationships with Asia and with the rest of the world. In particular, the existing pattern of...’
134. TOPICS FOR DISCUSSIONS ON SOUTH-EAST ASIA: 13 November 1949; ‘CANBERRA, 13 November 1949 SECRET RELATIONS WITH SOUTH-EAST ASIA Specific topics for further inter-departmental discussion In the light of the general appreciation of Australia’s interests in South-East Asia which has been circulated [1], the following more specific propositions are put forward for further inter- departmental exploration and discussion: 1. International...’
135. RECORD OF DISCUSSIONS ON SOUTH-EAST ASIA: 14 November 1949; ‘CANBERRA, [14 November 1949] [1] SUMMARY RECORD OF DISCUSSIONS BETWEEN REPRESENTATIVES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, COMMERCE AND AGRICULTURE AND DEFENCE, AND AUSTRALIAN REPRESENTATIVES IN SOUTH EAST ASIA, 14TH NOVEMBER 1949 Following meetings between representatives of the Governments of United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand to discuss Japan, China...’
136. BURTON TO SHEDDEN: 30 November 1949; ‘Memorandum, CANBERRA, 30 November 1949 TOP SECRET I refer to recent discussions in Canberra with overseas representatives of this department, to which you were good enough to send a representative of your department. 2. The discussions covered a wide range of subjects and it is now proposed to prepare a...’
137. SHEDDEN TO BURTON: 21 December 1949; ‘Memorandum, TOP SECRET MELBOURNE, 21 December 1949 EVENTS AND TRENDS IN SOUTH EAST ASIA I would refer to your memorandum 381/3/1/1 of 30th November, 1949 [1], relating to discussions held recently in Canberra with overseas representatives of your Department and the Defence views on certain matters of policy in South...’
138. MOODIE TO DESCHAMPS [1]: 11 February 1948; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 11 February 1948 The following are rough notes regarding long range policy towards India and Pakistan. I shall be glad to amplify them at any time: 1. British Commonwealth Relations. It is essential every effort be made to keep both countries within the Commonwealth, if for no other...’
139. BURTON TO GOLLAN: 12 October 1948; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 12 October 1948 There are several matters which can best be dealt with in this personal note so that you may consider them at leisure before return to Australia. [1] The Australian Government is taking particular interest in events and trends in the South-East Asia area at the...’
140. MOODIE TO BURTON: 29 December 1948; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 29 December 1948 INDIA AND SOUTH-EAST ASIA Developments in Indonesia [1] and China [2] provide a very good reason why we should revert to earlier proposals for talks with India, except that they should now be specifically related to the South East Asian area. The appointment of Gollan...’
141. BURTON TO GOLLAN: 7 January 1949; ‘Cablegram 2 (extract) CANBERRA, 7 January 1949, 2.00 p.m. SECRET I hope sudden developments regarding Asian Conference will not seriously disturb your arrangements but I feel we may be able to take advantage of it to further objects of your mission and facilitate your preliminary contacts with Indian leaders. In...’
142. BAJPAI TO GOLLAN: 27 January 1949; ‘Aide-Memoire NEW DELHI, 27 January 1949 I have the honour to enclose an Aide-Memoire containing suggestions for future cooperation between the countries represented at the recent Conference on Indonesia [1], which were discussed at an informal meeting called by the Prime Minister of India on the 24th January. It will...’
143. MOODIE TO BURTON: 2 February 1949; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 2 February 1949 SECRET A REGIONAL ARRANGEMENT FOR SOUTH-EAST ASIA It seems clear from a telegram [1] I saw yesterday that we will have to define our position. It seems equally clear that we will have to try to cut in half the area represented at the Asian...’
144. TANGE TO BURTON: 10 February 1949; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 10 February 1949 ASIAN CONSULTATIVE MACHINERY 1. I am puzzled by the Indian aide-memoire [1] which purports to extend into detail the terms of Resolution 3 of the New Delhi Conference; and alarmed by the proposed Australian reply. [2] 2. It can be assumed that, for political reasons,...’
145. FRASER TO CHIFLEY: 7 March 1949; ‘Cablegram 35 WELLINGTON, 7 March 1949, 5.18 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET & PERSONAL External Affairs telegram 22 of 18th February. [1] I can fully appreciate the need and desirability for Asian countries to consult among themselves on matters of common interest. I am, however, not aware of any common standard for...’
146. CHIFLEY TO FRASER: 10 March 1949; ‘Cablegram 36 CANBERRA, 10 March 1949, 11.30 a.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET PERSONAL Thank you for your telegram No. 35 [1]. I am in general agreement with your point of view and any difference of agreement arises out of the fact which you point out that Australia is more closely linked with...’
147. BURTON TO MCINTOSH: 10 March 1949; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 10 March 1949 PERSONAL & SECRET I was somewhat concerned when I read the telegram [1] from Mr. Fraser to Mr. Chifley regarding India’s regional proposals. You will already have seen the reply’, which I hope is satisfactory. I very much regret that you did not have one...’
148. MCINTOSH TO BURTON: 15 March 1949; ‘Letter WELLINGTON, 15 March 1949 PERSONAL & SECRET I received your letter of 10 March [1] yesterday, and following the despatch of another telegram [2] by Mr Fraser to Mr Chifley. This matter greatly interests the Prime Minister personally, and he is handling it himself. I understand that it has...’
149. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO GOVERNMENT OF INDIA: 17 March 1949; ‘Aide-Memoire CANBERRA, 17 March 1949 At the end of January the Government of India addressed to the Government of Australia an Aide-Memoire [1] inviting the views of the Australian Government with regard to means of implementing the Third Resolution adopted by the New Delhi Conference on Indonesia. The Government of...’
150. MAKIN TO EVATT: 18 July 1949; ‘Cable 627 WASHINGTON, 18 July 1949, 7.11 p.m. Received 19 July 1949 CONFIDENTIAL Romulo made a special visit to the Embassy to convey the personal invitation of the Philippines President to the Australian Government to send a delegation to Manila on a date mutually agreed upon and subjects for the...’
151. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MAKIN: 22 July 1949; ‘Cable 392 CANBERRA, 22 July 1949, 4.05 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Your 627. [1] Please inform Romulo that the Minister has always been in favour of some form of regional association that would provide for closer co-operation and consultation between Australia and the Philippines and other countries of Asia and the Pacific...’
152. MAKIN TO EVATT: 25 July 1949; ‘Cablegram 647 WASHINGTON, [25 July 1949], 12.31 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Have just received following cable from General Romulo. BEGINS- I have just received your communication conveying the reply of your Government to my personal approach regarding the possibilities of a conference as suggested by the President of the Philippines. [1] May...’
153. MAKIN TO EVATT: 8 August 1949; ‘Cablegram 686 WASHINGTON, 8 August 1949, 5.15 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Following confidential telegram received in clear from Romulo. Begins:- Supplementing my conference with you in Washington and my radiogram of 25th July [1], I wish to inform you that on 3rd August 1949, the President of the Philippines issued a formal...’
154. WALLER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 22 August 1949; ‘Savingram 46 MANILA, 22 August 1949, 12 noon Received 24 August 1949 SOUTH EAST ASIA UNION Romulo has now made it clear that he will not press for a South- East Asia Union Conference until January. Doctor Evatt’s suggestion that matter should be discussed by interested parties in New York...’
155. CABINET SUBMISSION BY CHIFLEY AND POLLARD: 12 January 1948; ‘Agendum 1414 CANBERRA, 12 January 1948 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SOUTH EAST ASIAN STUDENTS Proposal by British Council and United Kingdom High Commissioner 1. On 29th January, 1947, the United Kingdom High Commissioner approached the Australian Government with the request that Australia should consider what could be done to help revive British...’
156. PRESS STATEMENT BY DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 16 May 1948; ‘16 May 1948 VISIT OF MR. W. MACMAHON BALL TO SOUTH EAST ASIA The Minister for External Affairs (Dr. Evatt) said today that, as a consequence of the decisions of the Government made known some time ago to offer scholarships and relief supplies to countries in the South East Asia...’
157. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO STUART [1]: 20 May 1948; ‘Cablegram 272 CANBERRA, 20 May 1948 Formal note regarding scholarships referred to in my telegram No. 263 has been airmailed to you. [2] It is now desired that this should not (repeat not) be delivered but that fuller particulars relating to the plan should be conveyed by Mr. Macmahon Ball...’
158. BALL TO BURTON: 7 June 1948; ‘Cablegram 366 SINGAPORE, 7 June 1948, 3.35 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET 1. I am sending a report on Indonesia by air mail. 2. On arrival at Kuala Lumpur we found ourselves faced with a storm of protest against Australian Immigration Acts. News reports and leading articles in Malayan press were extremely...’
159. EVATT TO MACDONALD: 11 June 1948; ‘Message [1] CANBERRA, 11 June 1948 PERSONAL Begins: 2. Press reports allege a statement made by you at the dinner which you were good enough to give Mr. Ball suggesting that, in front of Chinese, Malay and Indian political and community leaders, you conveyed a warning to Mr. Ball that...’
160. STUART TO BURTON: 11 June 1948; ‘Memorandum SINGAPORE, 11 June 1948 By this bag I am sending a report on the visit of the Macmahon Ball Mission which I have tried to make as objective as possible, and so capable of circulation. I very much regret the controversy which the visit appears to have aroused in...’
161. MACDONALD TO EVATT: 19 June 1948; ‘Message [1] (extract) SINGAPORE, 19 June 1948 SECRET & PERSONAL Towards the end of this part of the discussion [2] I confirmed to Mr. Macmahon Ball and his colleagues the effect of repatriations on Asian opinion in Malaya. I introduced my remarks by saying that United Kingdom authorities in Malaya...’
162. REPORT BY BALL: 27 July 1948; ‘Extract 27 July 1948 REPORT ON A MISSION TO EAST ASIA May 27-July 6, 1948 Leader of Mission-W. Macmahon Ball Rep. of Department of External Affairs-D.W. McNicol Rep. of Commonwealth Office of Education-V.G. Harris PART I. GENERAL A. Summary of Conclusions 1. The mission left Sydney by R.A.A.F. special aircraft...’
163. BURTON TO HEYES: 1 March 1948; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 1 March 1948 I am forwarding herewith, informally, a Note prepared by an officer of this Department setting out certain arguments in favour of a token quota system for prospective Asian migrants to Australia. The author of the Note has spent several years in India, and it is...’
164. BURTON TO HEYES: 15 April 1948; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 15 April 1948 CONFIDENTIAL The attention of this Department has recently been drawn to two matters which seem to emphasize the need for a closer integration in the carrying out of Australian immigration policy with the carrying out of general foreign policy, which the Australian Government is endeavouring...’
165. CABINET SUBMISSION BY WARD: 24 June 1948; ‘Agendum 1465A CANBERRA, 24 June 1948 TERRITORY OF PAPUA-NEW GUINEA POLICY IN RELATION TO ENTRY AND RESIDENCE OF CHINESE Pursuant to Cabinet decision of 2nd June, 1948 [1] the above subject has been examined by a Committee, consisting of representatives of the Department of External Affairs, Department of Immigration and...’
166. HEYES TO BURTON: 20 January 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 20 January 1949 SECRET My Minister has had under consideration the question of the admission to Australia as permanent residents of persons who are not of pure European descent. The Minister holds the view that such persons are not suitable as settlers in Australia and it is his...’
167. BURTON TO HEYES: 16 February 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 16 February 1949 SECRET I wish to refer to your memorandum dated 20th January [1], regarding new and secret immigration procedures. The delay in writing is occasioned only by the fact that a procedure such as that suggested by you appeared to us to present great administrative difficulties...’
168. HEYES TO BURTON: 15 March 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 15 March 1949 SECRET I refer to your secret memorandum of 16th February, No. 1531/1 [1], respecting the decision that in future Eurasians are not to be admitted to Australia as Permanent residents. The statement in your memorandum that to extend the present restrictions to applicants eligible under...’
169. CABINET SUBMISSION BY CALWELL: 31 March 1949; ‘Agendum 1580 CANBERRA, 31 March 1949 PROPOSED AMENDMENT OF THE IMMIGRATION ACT The effect of the majority judgment of the High Court in the case of Mrs. O’Keefe is that if a person is admitted to Australia without being subjected at the time of entry to any of the tests...’
170. NOEL-BAKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 20 February 1948; ‘Cablegram 5 5 LONDON, 20 February 1948, 11.16 a.m. SECRET As you will be aware, Economic Commission for Asia and Far East decided at second session in Baguio to hold its third session in India and to defer until then recommendation as to its semi- permanent headquarters. In view of...’
171. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS: 1 March 1948; ‘Cablegram 125 CANBFRRA, 1 March 1948, 11.10 a.m. SECRET The Commonwealth Relations Office has approached us on the semi permanent headquarters for E.C.A.F.E. If the matter is raised in the current session of the Economic and Social Council you should support any United Kingdom motion seeking deferment until after the...’
172. MACKAY TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 19 May 1948; ‘Cablegram 209 NEW DELHI, 19 May 1948, 7.40 p.m. SECRET My telegram 203. You may desire to give some thought to the following in advance of the conference [1] which we note with appreciation Petherbridge [2] is to attend. The Interim report of the Industrial Working Party which has just...’
173. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO WARD: 28 May 1948; ‘Cablegram 149 CANBERRA, 28 May 1948, 11.59 a.m. SECRET Your 209. E.C.A.F.E. and Japan. The questions raised by the Industrial Working Party are difficult. We have not yet received the report itself, but from your summary it would appear that the report adopts many of the principles which Dr. Evatt...’
174. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, ECONOMIC & SOCIAL COUNCIL, TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 3 August 1948; ‘Cablegram ESC7 GENEVA, 3 August 1948, 11.25 a.m. SECRET Following is summary of address of Dr Evatt to Economic and Social Council on 30/7 on E.C.A.F.E. Full text by air. Begins: Dr Evatt stressed important role of ECOSOC contemplated in Article 65 of charter. Outlined Australian ties with Far East...’
175. REPORT BY WARD: 12 December 1948; ‘[12 December 1948] [1] REPORT ON THE FOURTH SESSION OF THE ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOP, ASIA AND THE FAR EAST Held at Lapstone, N. S. W November 29th to December 11th 1948 [matter omitted] 4. Optimistic hopes about what might be achieved at the Fourth Session were not realised. The Session...’
176. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO NOEL-BAKER, GOLLAN, CUTLER AND AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY, WASHINGTON: 11 March 1949; ‘Cablegrams 35, 122, 46, 154 CANBERRA, 11 March 1949, 3.35 p.m. RESTRICTED ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR ASIA AND THE FAR EAST Meeting of the Committee of the Mole, Bangkok 1. We have been giving some thought to future activity of the Commission, particularly in the field of industrial development. We feel...’
177. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 18 March 1949; ‘Cablegram UN196 (extract) NEW YORK, 18 March 1949, 8.59 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Your 154 to Washington ECAFE. 1. ECOSOC [1], debate on ECAFE interim report [2] produced nothing constructive with regard to further direction of Commission’s work. USSR recapitulated its ground for dissatisfaction as previously advanced at Lapstone. Other delegations perfunctorily...’
178. GOLLAN TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 23 March 1949; ‘Cablegram 219 NEW DELHI, 23 March 1949, 4.10 p.m. IMPORTANT RESTRICTED Your telegram 122. E.C.A.F.E. We have discussed your proposals with the Ministry of External Affairs and B.N. Adarkar, Deputy Economic Adviser to the Government of India, who will represent India at the Bangkok meeting. 2. The Indians agreed that...’
179. WARD TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 29 March 1949; ‘Cablegram B36 BANGKOK, 29 March 1949, 9 p.m. IMPORTANT RESTRICTED E.C.A.F.E. Today’s session devoted to preliminary statements by delegates. Indian delegate submitted draft resolution for the establishment of a Committee on Industry and Trade at Government level to promote implementation of specific projects particularly those already past the planning stage....’
180. WARD TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 7 April 1949; ‘Cablegram B43 BANGKOK, 7 April 1949, 11.27 a.m. ECAFE. Committee of the Whole concluded business today. Following is summary of resolutions. The Secretariat, assisted by necessary experts and consultants, to make a study of available surveys of coal reserves in the region and the obstacles to such surveys, study of...’
181. NOTES FOR PAYNE: 19 September 1949; ‘CANBERRA, [19 September 1949] [2] PART A General Comments [matter omitted] 2. Australia was not originally invited to this Conference by F.A.O. but representation was sought as it was considered desirable that Australia should be aware of Asian agricultural and food policies as they develop. Again, the East generally is...’
182. REPORT BY PAYNE: 6 October 1949; ‘Conference, Singapore 6 October 1949, F.A.O. CONFERENCE, SINGAPORE The Session opened in the Victoria Hall, Singapore, on Monday September 26th, and closed on Saturday October 1st. The list of Delegates and Observers, and Secretariat, are as set out on the final page of the attached documents. It was unfortunate that...’
183. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO FRASER: 19 March 1948; ‘Cablegram 51 CANBERRA, 19 March 1948, 3.05 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET SOUTH PACIFIC COMMISSION We propose with your concurrence to act on the joint behalf of our two Governments in convening the first meeting of the Commission in Sydney on 19th May. All signatory Governments have informally indicated their willingness to...’
184. PYMAN TO BURTON: 1 June 1948; ‘Note CANBERRA, 1 June 1948 CONFIDENTIAL SOUTH PACIFIC COMMISSION FIRST MEETING This Note is not intended to be a summary of the main achievements of the first meeting of the Commission but is an endeavour to focus attention on matters of substantial importance which will require early consideration by the...’
185. BURTON TO EVATT: 21 October 1948; ‘Cablegram E84 CANBERRA, 21 October 1948, 2.35 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL SECRET South Pacific Commission meeting commences Sydney on Monday. The organisation is now on the rails, but it has achieved nothing in terms of its objectives as yet. To break the ice, member governments should invite Commission to undertake some particular...’
186. BURTON TO POSTS: 9 November 1948; ‘Circular memorandum CANBERRA, 9 November 1948 SECOND SESSION OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC COMMISSION The Second Session of the South Pacific Commission was held in Sydney from 25th October to 2nd November, 1948. The general atmosphere at the session was encouraging, particularly the unanimous desire of representatives to get on with...’
187. HALLIGAN TO BURTON: 29 March 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 29 March 1949 SOUTH PACIFIC COMMISSION SECOND SESSION REPORT OF THE AUSTRALIAN COMMISSIONERS I am attaching a copy of the Report of the Australian Commissioners who attended the Second Session of the Commission. The Rev. Dr. Burton has the original of the Report and will doubtlessly submit it...’
188. MCINTYRE TO BURTON: 9 March 1948; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 9 March 1948 RECOGNITION OF NEW SIAMESE GOVERNMENT The Foreign Minister of the new Siamese Government has addressed a Note to the Australian Consulate-General in the terms of the attached telegram B36. The Note contains an undertaking that the Siamese Government ‘will continue to observe with care all...’
189. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO KNOX [1]: 11 March 1948; ‘Cablegram 19 CANBERRA, 11 March 1948, 4.50 p.m. Your B.36. You should not give any formal acknowledgement of the note at this stage. The Government in power came to power by force and, though there have been certain acts since to assert popular support, this is not sufficient evidence on...’
190. MCINTYRE TO BURTON: 12 March 1948; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 12 March 1948 RECOGNITION OF SIAMESE GOVERNMENT It does not seem to me that the attached telegram meets the position. [1] 2. It was announced in the press last week-end that the U.K., U.S., China, India, France and the Netherlands had recognised the Siamese Government. This indicated that...’
191. EASTMAN TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 14 March 1948; ‘Cablegram B41 BANGKOK, 14 March 1948, 12.30 a.m. Your telegram 19. [1] Siamese Political situation. Except for Australia all countries represented in Siam have already recognised the new Government by replying to the Minister for Foreign Affairs in the agreed form. United Kingdom, American, Chinese, French, Netherlands and Indian representatives...’
192. MCINTYRE TO BURTON: 28 April 1948; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 28 April 1948 SIAM-RECOGNITION OF PIBUL GOVERNMENT It is now clear that Marshal Luang Pibul Songgram has openly assumed power in Siam. Following the coup d’etat of last November, he professed his intention of remaining out of politics; but he has now forced the Khuang Government out of...’
193. EASTMAN TO BURTON: 18 June 1948; ‘Memorandum BANGKOK, 18 June 1948 FORMAL RECOGNITION OF SIAMESE GOVERNMENT Up to the present time my relations with the Siamese Government have been conducted strictly on the basis of the instructions in your telegram No. 31 [1], received here on 7th May, 1948. Although I could not avoid meeting the...’
194. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EASTMAN: 13 July 1948; ‘Cablegram 57 CANBERRA, 13 July 1948, 5.40 p.m. SECRET Your B.103. [1] Recent exchange of letters between Minister for External Affairs and Siamese Foreign Minister can be regarded as indication that we are in normal diplomatic relations with Siam. [2] _ 1 Dispatched 12 July 1948, it reported an enquiry...’
195. BURTON TO HEYDON: 17 October 1949; ‘Memorandum, CANBERRA, 17 October 1949 CONFIDENTIAL With reference to your confidential memorandum No.888 of 14th September, 1949, enclosing a copy of a memorandum from the Thai Ambassador in London proposing the establishment of diplomatic relations and an exchange of Ministers between Thailand and Australia, I set out below the terms...’
196. NOTE BY EASTMAN: 17 November 1949; ‘CANBERRA, 17 November 1949 AUSTRALIAN-THAI RELATIONS Official relations between Australia and Thailand, as seen from the Bangkok end, are at present worse than they have been at any stage in the past. This results from the cumulative effect of our unfriendly postwar attitude and in particular from the following specific...’
197. MASSEY TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 30 June 1948; ‘Cablegram 397 SINGAPORE, 30 June 1948, 6.31 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET My telegram 390. While attempts to kill Europeans and K.M.T. [1] Chinese continue, violence here is now taking on form of organized attacks on villages and railway stations. A gang of Chinese captured the township of Serantut in Pahang...’
198. MASSEY TO EVATT: 15 July 1948; ‘Dispatch 3 14 8 SINGAPORE, 15 July 1948 CONFIDENTIAL TOP SECRET [matter omitted] 12…it is clear where Australia’s interests lie in the current emergency. Although the eventuality is remote, a Communist success in Malaya and the establishment here of a Communist state would be followed ultimately by a Communist seizure...’
199. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 24 July 1948; ‘Cablegram 432 SINGAPORE, 24 July 1948, 1.33 p.m. IMPORTANT SECRET I have had consultation to day, and this evening with the Commissioner General, Governor of Singapore, and the Australian Commissioner. [1] 2. Authorities here are getting in touch with the United Kingdom Government as to munitions requirements so that if...’
200. HEYDON TO BURTON: 29 July 1948; ‘Cablegram 2539 LONDON, 29 July 1948, 6.22 p.m. With reference to Massey’s telegram No. 438 [1] Minister has discussed the matter with Attlee and if any request is to be made to Australia it would come from the United Kingdom Government. This is clear principle and procedure. However, if Massey...’
201. MASSEY TO CHIFLEY: 30 July 1948; ‘Dispatch 4/48 SINGAPORE, 30 July 1948 [1] CONFIDENTIAL TOP SECRET When Dr. Evatt was in Singapore he discussed the situation here at length with the Commissioner-General (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald) and the Governor of Singapore (Sir Franklin Gimson). You already know, from his telegram No. 43[2] of 24th July, 1948 [2]...’
202. MASSEY TO CHIFLEY: 17 August 1948; ‘Cablegram 477 SINGAPORE, 17 August 1948, 2.31 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL I have seen several reports recently in Australian papers reaching Singapore which seek to connect Australian Communist Party with the outbreak of violence here and particularly to allege that Lawrence Sharkey ‘prompted it’ during his visit to...’
203. NOEL-BAKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 21 August 1948; ‘Cablegram H363 LONDON, 21 August 1948, 6.43 p.m. TOP SECRET MALAYA As you will be aware we have decided to send further reinforcements to Malaya and have recently announced decision to send second Guards Brigade. Following for your top secret information are main considerations which led us to take this...’
204. BURTON TO MASSEY: 25 August 1948; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 25 August 1948 In order to provide for continuity of reporting from your post, as well as to give a coherent picture of events and conditions in the colony of Singapore and the Federation of Malaya, it is considered that a fortnightly telegram summarising events of importance should...’
205. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO WATT: 27 August 1948; ‘Cablegram 133 CANBERRA, 27 August 1948, 2.30 p.m. SECRET Your 281. Prime Minister has made following statements on export of arms and equipment to Malaya:- (1) 2nd August. ‘Cabinet decided today that, where a request has been or will be made by the British Government for arms and equipment for...’
206. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MASSEY: 22 September 1948; ‘Cablegram 529 [1] CANBERRA, 22 September 1948, 5.30 p.m. TOP SECRET From information we have here, it would appear that the guerilla activity in Malaya is conducted by certain guerilla bands organised to combat Japanese who, since the war, have been demanding recognition for their services, rehabilitation and other assistance....’
207. MASSEY TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 24 September 1948; ‘Cablegram 556 SINGAPORE, 24 September 1948, 6.41 p.m. IMPORTANT TOP SECRET Guerilla activities here are conducted largely by: (1) War time ‘Malayan Peoples anti-Japanese Army’ and (2) Small mobile groups of professional gunmen (see part two (c) of my report enclosed with Ministerial despatch Number 3, July 15th), aided by...’
208. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 17 December 1948; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 17 December 1948, 10.32 p.m. PERSONAL FOR CHIFLEY ALONE FROM EVATT TOP SECRET 1. Yesterday I had a talk with Attlee, Bevin and Noel-Baker. [matter omitted] 3. I took occasion to raise the whole question of the Pacific and South East Asia because for some considerable time,...’
209. MASSEY TO BURTON: 10 May 1949; ‘Dispatch 16/49 (extract) SINGAPORE, 10 May 1949 CONFIDENTIAL THE SITUATION IN MALAYA There is evidence that the troubles in Malaya are entering a new phase. Whether or not this phase will prove to be final is still very much a matter for conjecture; most probably the changing situation outside Malaya...’
210. STUART TO BURTON: 13 May 1949; ‘Letter SINGAPORE, 13 May 1949 SECRET & PERSONAL As you say in your letter of the 10th May 1949, the important issue is what alternative there is to the United Kingdom Government’s current policy of working for a ‘Malayan’, i.e. Malay-Chinese-Indian, solution in this country. 2. I believe myself that...’
211. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MASSEY: 14 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 319 CANBERRA, 14 June 1949, 5.30 p.m. RESTRICTED Australian press has quoted report appearing in London newspaper ‘The People’ to the effect that United Kingdom Government has given MacDonald plans for a new British dominion in South East Asia embracing Malaya, Singapore, Hong Kong, Sarawak, and Borneo. 2. Please...’
212. MASSEY TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 15 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 338 SINGAPORE, 15 June 1949, 8.25 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Your telegram 319. [1] This suggestion was first made public in a Press Conference given in March by Rees-William, Under-Secretary for the Colonies, who gave it as his own conception of what the long-term United Kingdom policy should be. It roused...’
213. WILLIAMS TO CHIFLEY: 1 February 1949; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 1 February 1949 IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET I have been asked to pass to you at once the enclosed top secret message from my Prime Minister regarding an approach made by the Government of Burma to the United Kingdom Government. I enclose also the general appreciation referred to at...’
214. CHIFLEY TO WILLIAMS: 8 February 1949; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 8 February 1949 TOP SECRET I wish to refer to your letter of 1st February regarding the approach made to the United Kingdom Government by the Government of Burma for financial assistance. Our view is that the situation in Burma cannot be remedied by financial assistance only, and...’
215. NEHRU TO CHIFLEY: 21 February 1949; ‘Telegram 21045 [1] NEW DELHI, 21 February 1949, 6.05 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET You are aware of the concern of the United Kingdom Prime Minister, which, I feel sure, you also share, over the situation in Burma and of the earnest desire to help the present Burma Government to...’
216. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 28 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 162 NEW DELHI, 28 February 1949, 10.40 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET PERSONAL The talks on Burma started to day and were completed late this afternoon. [1] Nehru and several ministers represented India, Bottomley and Malcolm MacDonald the United Kingdom. I attended accompanied by Gollan, and Ceylon High Commissioner...’
217. GOLLAN TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 22 March 1949; ‘Cablegram 212 NEW DELHI, 22 March 1949, 1.20 p.m. IMMEDIATE CONFIDENTIAL Received 23 March 1949 Our telegram 205. Burmese Government agrees to exchange of diplomatic representatives with Australia at level of Charge d’Affaires en titre. They will be delighted to receive Australian representative in Rangoon whenever the Australian Government decides...’
218. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO GOLLAN: 28 March 1949; ‘Cablegram 144 CANBERRA, 28 March 1949, 5.40 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Your 212. For your own information, continued deterioration of situation in Burma, which now appears to have reached stage where Burmese Government exercises very little control outside Rangoon, has led us to the conclusion that little is to be gained by...’
219. TAYSOM [1] TO KEVIN: 30 April 1949; ‘Letter CALCUTTA, 30 April 1949 Dr. Burton this morning at the aerodrome asked me to pass on to you the intelligence that while they were in London, a meeting was held to discuss Burma. [2] Mr. Chifley did not attend, neither did any other Australian delegate, I understand, and Mr....’
220. HIGH COMMISSION IN NEW DELHI [1] TO BURTON: 5 May 1949; ‘Letter (extract) NEW DELHI, 5 May 1949 SECRET With reference to two questions from you at Calcutta, [2] conveyed through Taysom and Johnstone [3], the following are the answers. (a) Burma. The Indian Government have no alternative but to show interest in the Burmese imbroglio. The reasons for their interest...’
221. BURTON TO KEVIN: 5 May 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 5 May 1949 As you may have gathered from the press meetings were held in London recently between various Prime Ministers to discuss the question of Burma. Australia was not represented. The Prime Minister had already discussed the matter with United Kingdom Ministers making his position quite clear...’
222. MCINTYRE TO KEVIN: 5 July 1949; ‘Letter (extract) CANBERRA, 5 July 1949 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL We gather that the British Commonwealth talks with the Burmese Government have not made very much progress and indeed seem more or less to have broken down. But we are rather in the dark as to exactly why. Nor can we...’
223. KEVIN TO MCINTYRE: 15 July 1949; ‘Letter (extract) NEW DELHI, 15 July 1949 PERSONAL Principal features of the situation have been:- (1) The poor calibre of the Burmese Government, including their worthy enough but weak Premier (Thakin Nu)-an Oxford Group type, which will intrigue you. (2) An incurable optimism peculiar to the Burmese. This frequently verges...’
224. BURTON TO SINCLAIR [1]: 6 October 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 6 October 1949 TOP SECRET Supply of Arms and Warlike Stores to Overseas Countries With reference to your Top Secret memorandum 3323 asking for a direction regarding an enquiry from the British Service Mission to Burma about certain types of anti-tank gun and mortar ammunition required by the...’
225. SMYTH TO MCINTYRE: 13 February 1948; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 13 February 1948 CHINESE RELATIONS WITH AUSTRALIA You asked me a few weeks ago to write an appreciation on this subject and the attached tentative ideas are submitted for your perusal. 2. The chief conclusions are as follows:- i) Although our economic interest in China is small at...’
226. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 16 November 1948; ‘Cablegram unnumbered SHANGHAI, 16 November 1948, 6.27 a.m. SECRET 1. Situation. The following is my appreciation of the situation as the result of my talks in Hong Kong and to date in Shanghai. 2. Military. The main Communist threat is towards Hsuchow and Pengpu. It is possible the former has...’
227. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO OFFICER: 30 November 1948; ‘Cablegram 191 CANBERRA, 30 November 1948, 11.40 a.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Your 322. [1] The Acting Minister [2] has considered position and is inclined to the view that you should not leave Nanking in event of Government evacuating. Such a step raises questions of future policy such as attitude to any...’
228. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 1 December 1948; ‘Cablegram 327 NANKING, 1 December 1948, 12.30 a.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET My telegram 322 [1] and paragraph 11 of Fuhrman’s telegram 291. [2] Commonwealth representatives have discussed the question of moving from Nanking. They have come to the conclusion that unless the Government provided all necessary facilities both for transporting...’
229. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 22 December 1948; ‘Message LONDON, 22 December 1948 TOP SECRET In the light of the steady deterioration in the situation of the Nationalist Government, we have been considering the consequences of probable Communist domination of the whole of China, or, at any rate, down to the Yangste. The following is an outline of...’
230. OFFICER TO EVATT: 11 January 1949; ‘Dispatch 1 (extract) NANKING, 11 January 1949 SECRET 10. In the field of international relations I think it must be assumed that a Communist or Communist dominated government in China would have very close relations with the Soviet and be inclined to cold shoulder both the British Commonwealth and the...’
231. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 January 1949; ‘Cablegram 25 NANKING, 20 January 1949, 4.45 p.m. IMMEDIATE CONFIDENIAL Proposed move to Canton. My telegram 23. [1] Last night the Ambassadors of the ‘North Atlantic’ group and later the Commonwealth met to discuss the situation. 2. Everyone was bewildered at the timing of the request, at a moment when...’
232. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 22 January 1949; ‘Cablegram 28 NANKING, 22 January 1949, 10.15 a.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Your telegram No.8 [1] This will be the attitude of practically all Missions here including, I understand now, the Soviet. 2. But all missions intend also to send representatives to Canton when the Ministry of Foreign Affairs actually moves there,...’
233. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO OFFICER: 22 January 1949; ‘Cablegram 10 CANBERRA, 22 January 1949, 9.30 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE CONFIDENTIAL Your 28 [1] not quite clear. We assume Proposal is to remain Nanking yourself with other heads of Missions. Minister entirely approves and wishes you all luck. Please keep us fully informed. _ 1 Document 232. _ [AA:1838, 494/1/22]...’
234. OFFICER TO EVATT: 27 January 1949; ‘Cablegram 44 NANKING, 27 January 1949, 10.50 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL Reference my telegram 43. [1] I think that we are now at the most critical period here, when a very few days will decide whether there is to be peace by negotiations, or whether Communists are...’
235. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO OFFICER: 29 January 1949; ‘Cablegram 19 CANBERRA, 29 January 1949, 12 noon IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Your 44. [1] Minister wishes to thank you for your message. Whatever you might do along those lines would be appropriate, but he feels he cannot take such action without first consulting the Secretary-General. At the appropriate time, he...’
236. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 29 January 1949; ‘Cablegram 49 NANKING, 29 January 1949, 9.45 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Your telegram 19. [1] I appreciate that Secretary-General must be consulted but hope it can be done quickly for time is short and I believe a very early statement on lines suggested in my telegram 44 might tip...’
237. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO OFFICER: 31 January 1949; ‘Cablegram 20 CANBERRA, 31 January 1949 TOP SECRET Your 49. [1] Minister is impressed by your two messages. He feels in first instance you might act on his behalf as President of United Nations Assembly and make contact and seek informal consultation with parties concerned. There is apparently no other...’
238. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 2 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 52 NANKING, 2 February 1949, 6.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Your telegram No. 20. [1] I called on the acting President, Li Tsung Jen, this morning and talked to him generally on the lines of above telegram and para. 3 of my telegram No.44. [2] 2. Li Tsung Jen...’
239. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 2 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 53 NANKING, 2 February 1949, 6.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET My immediately preceding telegram 52 [1] and your telegram 20. [2] I think it would be wise to do no more than make a statement at present and reserve the question of Good Offices for the present. 2. Having...’
240. OFFICER TO EVATT: 3 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 55 NANKING, 3 February 1949, 4.25 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET My telegram 53. [1] The Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs [2] has advised that the Acting President is most anxious that you should make a statement, on the lines indicated, at a very early date. 2. Therefore, I repeat my...’
241. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 4 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 58 NANKING, 4 February 1949, 12.00 noon IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Your telegram 24. [1] What I suggest is a very brief statement on the lines of that in my immediately following telegram. 2. This avoids any detailed references to the existing situation. I think this is desirable to prevent...’
242. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 4 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 59 NANKING, 4 February 1949, 2.35 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET My immediately preceding telegram 58. [1] ‘For some time past China has been disturbed by open war between the nationalist Government and the Communist forces. This is China’s own affair and how and when she settles it is an...’
243. OFFICER TO EVATT: 5 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 67 NANKING, [5 February 1949], 1.10 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Reference your telegram 25. [1] I have no hope of any early reaction from the other side. I have found a way of sending to them a copy of remarks I made on 2nd February but it will...’
244. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 14 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 71 NANKING, 14 February 1949, 5.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET My telegram No.64 [1] and my immediately preceding telegram 70. [2] Acting President to express is being very reticent about any action by [United Nations]. [3] He is fearful of any more which might prejudice his efforts to open...’
245. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 22 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 81 NANKING, 22 February 1949, 4.30 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Your telegram No. 30 [1] I reported in my telegram No. 71 [2] the reluctance of the Acting President to express any opinion at present and Sun Fo’s support of the proposition. As Sun is a very lukewarm supporter...’
246. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 28 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 88 NANKING, 28 February 1949, 4.18 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET I called on the Minister for Foreign Affairs on Saturday afternoon. 2. He asked me to tell Dr. Evatt that the Government had appreciated greatly his suggestion for United Nations mediation. They felt that they should pursue first their...’
247. OFFICER TO EVATT: 7 March 1949; ‘Dispatch 11 NANKING, 7 March 1949 TOP SECRET In paragraph 15 of my Despatch No. 1/49 [1] I referred to the need for more than a defensive stand against the advance of Communism in South-east Asia, and urged that the British territories in that area should commence without delay steps...’
248. BURTON TO OFFICER: 29 March 1949; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 29 March 1949 Thank you for your Despatches 9/49 [1] and 11/49 [2] dealing with China and communism in South-East Asia. These will be particularly useful in relation to the forthcoming conference of Prime Ministers [3] where these matters will be discussed. Regarding your proposal, there is a...’
249. CHIFLEY TO KIMBER: 8 April 1949; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 8 April 1949 SECRET I desire to refer to your letter of 28th March, 1949, (Ref. 2/206) setting forth the general views of the United Kingdom authorities on the question of establishing relations with the Chinese Communists, and to inform you that the Australian Government has no comments...’
250. OFFICER TO BURTON: 19 April 1949; ‘Memorandum NANKING, 19 April 1949 MOST CONFIDENTIAL Your letter of 29th March [1] did not reach me here until Saturday last, 16th April, so I would not have been able to send you anything to Australia before you left, even if there had been anything to send. There is not,...’
251. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 30 April 1949; ‘Cablegram 155 NANKING (VIA SINGAPORE), 30 April 1949 [1] Communist troops are quiet and well behaved and we have not been interfered with though there is still complete uncertainty as to the rules applicable regarding moving about and different rules are applied to different missions. [2] 2. Though I regret...’
252. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN NANKING: 14 May 1949; ‘Cablegram 58 CANBERRA, 14 May 1949, 1.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE CONFIDENTIAL We have received through United Kingdom Government the proposal for a joint public appeal to Chinese Government to spare Shanghai needless destruction. While agreeing that Foreign Representatives on the spot should do all they can to persuade Chinese Authorities not...’
253. NOEL-BAKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 20 May 1949; ‘Cablegram H225 LONDON, 20 May 1949, 10.50 p.m. SECRET RECOGNITION OF COMMUNIST GOVERNMENT IN CHINA We have asked United Kingdom High Commissioner to keep you informed of trend of our thinking on this subject and have been glad to note large measure of agreement with our views. We are anxious...’
254. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 31 May 1949; ‘Cablegram 308 CANBERRA, 31 May 1949, 9.00 a.m. CONFIDENTIAL China. Our immediately following telegram contains text of a message from the Prime Minister to the Foreign Secretary, London, regarding our attitude towards developments in China. [1] Any question of recognition of a Communist-controlled regime for part or whole of China...’
255. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 31 May 1949; ‘Cablegram 309 CANBERRA, 31 May 1949, 9.00 a.m. CONFIDENTIAL Our immediately preceding telegram. [1] China. Following is message referred to. With reference to the message of the United Kingdom Ambassador at Nanking to the Foreign Office, regarding a common economic policy in dealing with the Communists, we wish to make...’
256. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN NANKING: 1 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 62 CANBERRA, 1 June 1949, 8.45 p.m. SECRET We have received through United Kingdom Government several telegrams from United Kingdom Ambassador Nanking reflecting views of all British Commonwealth representatives in China on questions of (a) how and when recognition might be extended to Communists and (b) extent to which...’
257. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN NANKING: 3 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 63 CANBERRA, 3 June 1949, 4.30 p.m. SECRET Your 163. You should by now have had our 62 [1] summarising our views on recognition of and trade with the Communists. Please keep us informed promptly of any developments on these matters. We have recognised the general desirability of keeping...’
258. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 5 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 165 NANKING, 5 June 1949, 12.51 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Your telegram No.62 [1] is complete confirmation of our views here. 2. As regards your query in paragraph 3 and your paragraph 4 I think that there is some confusion between (a) seeking relations, and (b) encouraging Communist efforts to...’
259. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO OFFICER: 7 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 66 CANBERRA, 7 June 1949, 2.01 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Your 164. [1] We are not contemplating that you should withdraw from China. It is important that you continue to use your influence with United Kingdom and United States Ambassadors along the lines indicated in our recent telegrams. We are far...’
260. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 10 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 168 NANKING, 10 June 1949, 10.59 a.m. PRIORITY CONFIDENTIAL Your telegram 66. [1] Paragraph one of my telegram 164 [2] was sent not because I contemplated early departure but in order that I might have approval for staff changes which would be necessary when I did leave and especially...’
261. NOEL-BAKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 5 July 1949; ‘Cablegram H333 LONDON, 5 July 1949, 8.30 p.m. SECRET CONTROL OF EXPORTS OF STRATEGIC MATERIALS TO COMMUNIST CHINA My telegram No. 279 dated 15th June. [1] Discussions with United States representatives have now been concluded. In addition to weapons and military items, the export of which from the United Kingdom...’
262. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO NOEL-BAKER: 11 July 1949; ‘Cablegram 117 CANBERRA, 11 July 1949, 5.50 p.m. IMMEDIATE RESTRICTED Your H333. [1] CONTROL OF EXPORT TO COMMUNIST CONTROLLED CHINA 1. We are totally opposed to some of the basic suggestions which have been made by United States Government and reported in your H333. 2. We agree that no actual...’
263. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 4 August 1949; ‘Cablegram 198 NANKING, 4 August 1949, 2.03 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Situation Shanghai. I find the situation of the British community worse than paragraph (2) of my telegram No. 196 [1] would indicate. They are determined to remain if possible, but their situation is deteriorating rapidly owing to-(a) closing of...’
264. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO NOEL-BAKER: 23 August 1949; ‘Cablegram 146 CANBERRA, 23 August 1949, 9 p.m. SECRET Your 378. [1] Supplies for Shanghai. We are anxiously awaiting outcome of your attempts to obtain agreement of Chinese Government and Communist authorities to regular shipments of supplies into Shanghai. As you are aware, we have taken the view that everything...’
265. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 9 September 1949; ‘Cablegram 221 NANKING, 9 September 1949, 7.54 p.m. RESTRICTED My telegram 168 [1] and immediately preceding 220 [2] and paragraph 7 of my despatch 19. [3] 2. It seems probable in the near future that (a) Canton will be occupied by the Communist forces and fugitive Nationalist Government set up...’
266. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 13 September 1949; ‘Cablegram 224 NANKING, 13 September 1949, 11.01 a.m. IMMEDIATE RESTRICTED First sentence of paragraph 4 of my telegram 223. [1] Question of recognition and when it is accorded has to be decided in Australia in the light of far more information than is available to us here and probably after...’
267. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO OFFICER: 15 September 1949; ‘Cablegram 94 CANBERRA, 15 September 1949, 5.30 p.m. IMMEDIATE RESTRICTED Your 224. [1] Our present view is you should stay at the post and report even after new government formed pending consideration of position. _ 1 Document 266. _ [AA:A1838/278, 494/2/10, i] ’
268. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 28 September 1949; ‘Cablegram 236 NANKNG, 28 September 1949 IMMEDIATE SECRET Your telegram unnumbered received on September 16th [1], in answer, I assume, to my No. 223. [2] have been advised informally (all communications are informal) that the Communist Authorities expect me and the other Heads of Missions to leave China as soon...’
269. EVATT TO BEVIN: 4 October 1949; ‘Message CANBERRA, 4 October 1949 [1] It would be of great help to us to know at the earliest possible moment your views on recognition of the Northern Chinese Government. You will appreciate that in matters affecting the Pacific and the Far East we do not want any action taken...’
270. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 4 October 1949; ‘Cablegram 246 NANKING, 4 October 1949, 4.50 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Authorities have authorised heads of Missions to send one telegram in cypher following meeting reported in my telegram 245. [1] Please acknowledge en clair by ‘understood’. 2. As soon as I have received the formal letter referred to in the above-mentioned...’
271. OFFICER TO HUANG: 6 October 1949; ‘Letter NANKING, 6 October 1949 I duly received yesterday and gave a receipt for your letter forwarding the letter from Chou En-lai, the text of which and the proclamation, I transmitted immediately to my Government in Australia. I have now been instructed to transmit the enclosed message to Chou En-lai,...’
272. BEVIN TO EVATT: 17 October 1949; ‘Message [1] 17 October 1949 SECRET I am grateful for your message of 4th October [2] since I fully appreciate the value of close consultation between us in regard to our policy towards the new China. 2. I trust the interim reply already returned to you has proved helpful. [3]...’
273. EVATT TO BEVIN: 19 October 1949; ‘Message [1] CANBERRA, 19 October 1949 SECRET Begins. Thanks for your message. [2] The Crucial thing is that, when action is taken, whether at the United Nations or separately, it should be joint action and synchronised. It occurred to me that perhaps, prior to negotiations regarding recognition and part of...’
274. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO POSTS: 25 October 1949; ‘Cablegram unnumbered CANBERRA, 25 October 1949, 5.50 p.m. The following statement by Dr. Evatt was released today 25th at 7 p.m. PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA There was declared in Peking on October 1st the Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China. The Australian Ambassador, along with other foreign...’
275. MIGHELL TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 29 October 1949; ‘Cablegram 4518 LONDON, 29 October 1949, 7.50 p.m. PRIORITY SECRET CHINA Lord Addison [1] has suggested to all High Commissioners in London that consultation question of ‘recognition of the Chinese Communist Government’ might best be done at a meeting with them at which the Foreign Secretary would be present. Lord...’
276. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 2 November 1949; ‘Cablegram 619 CANBERRA, 2 November 1949, 5.40 p.m. RESTRICTED Your 1067. Recognition of Communist Government at Peking. Following is text of Australian reply to Chou En-lai: ‘His Majesty’s Government in the Commonwealth of Australia are carefully considering the communication from the Central People’s Government in Peking. Meanwhile, in view of...’
277. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MIGHELL: 6 November 1949; ‘Cablegram 4786 CANBERRA, 6 November 1949, 5.45 p.m. PRIORITY CONFIDENTIAL Following are texts of informal exchanges between Minister and United States Ambassador. I. Informal message from Dr. Evatt in reply to United States Ambassador. Begins: The Australian Government’s view with regard to the recognition of the Communist regime in China...’
278. MIGHELL TO BEVIN: 7 November 1949; ‘Letter LONDON, 7 November 1949 PERSONAL AND SECRET I have been asked to convey to you as a personal message from Dr. Evatt our present views on the recognition of the Chinese Communist Government. In the first place, I enclose a copy of Dr. Evatt’s public statement of 25th October...’
279. MIGHELL TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 15 November 1949; ‘Cablegram 4 7 82 LONDON, 15 November 1949, 8.46 p.m. SECRET Following is a summary of the views expressed at the Meeting of the High Commissioners with the Foreign Secretary on recognition of China afternoon of 15th November. 2. The Foreign Secretary referred to the aide-memoire [1] and asked us...’
280. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MIGHELL: 17 November 1949; ‘Cablegram 4988 CANBERRA, 17 November 1949, 11.25 a.m. SECRET Your 4782. [1] Paragraph II: Does this mean that United Kingdom contemplate that they could recognise Communist Government but at the same time oppose or abstain on the question of accreditation of Chinese Communist representative in Security Council. Since this would...’
281. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO NOEL-BAKER: 20 December 1949; ‘Cablegram 220 CANBERRA, 20 December 1949, 11.35 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET The Australian Government has received through your High Commissioner in Canberra, Mr. Attlee’s and your message indicating that you propose to recognise the Communist Government of China on 2nd January next. 2. After carefully considering all aspects of the matter...’
282. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 30 May 1949; ‘Message [1] LONDON, 30 May 1949 TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL My colleagues and I are deeply anxious and concerned over the situation which threatens to develop shortly at Hong Kong. You will already have received through our High Commissioner a statement of the considerations which led us earlier to order...’
283. CHIFLEY TO ATTLEE: 30 May 1949; ‘Message CANBERRA, 30 MAY 1949 TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL 1. I have received your personal message about Hongkong, and have discussed with your High Commissioner at Canberra your assessment of the military position there and the factors which have persuaded you to send additional reinforcements. 2. It is obviously of...’
284. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 2 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 2228 (extract) LONDON, 2 June 1949, 10.10 p.m. EMERGENCY CONFIDENTIAL PERSONAL 1. I had a discussion this afternoon with Attlee and he stated the position in Hong Kong and his policy in China very much on lines of messages which you have received. [1] I told him that your...’
285. FRASER TO CHIFLEY: 11 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 75 WELLINGTON, 11 June 1949, 11.3 8 a.m. TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL After considering the communication received from the United Kingdom regarding the organising of the defences of Hongkong [1] the New Zealand Cabinet are prepared to offer the use of three frigates and will consider the possibility of...’
286. CHIFLEY TO FRASER: 14 June 1949; ‘Cablegram unnumbered CANBERRA, [14 June 1949] [1] TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL 1. The question of Hongkong was brought by me before Cabinet today and the suggested offer by New Zealand of three frigates for the defence of Hongkong was taken fully into consideration. 2. The general policy of the government...’
287. FRASER TO CHIFLEY: 15 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 77 WELLINGTON, 15 June 1949, 10.25 p.m. TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL Thank you for your telegram setting out the views of the Australian Government. [1] The first question as I see it is whether or not the United Kingdom is to retreat before aggression if it should occur. Having...’
288. MASSEY TO MCINTYRE: 5 July 1949; ‘Letter SINGAPORE, 5 July 1949 TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL At a meeting of the British Defence Co-ordination Committee on 21st June, 1949, the Commissioner-General made a statement on the United Kingdom Government’s most recent policy regarding Hong Kong. Mr. MacDonald said that at meetings which he had attended of the...’
289. MCINTYRE TO MASSEY: 15 July 1949; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 15 July 1949 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL Many thanks for your letters of 5th July about Hongkong and about Indo-China. It is useful for us to have these items of information and background about neighbouring territories on which our regular sources of information are meagre. Your letter about Hongkong...’
290. MAKIN TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 22 January 1948; ‘Cablegram 95 WASHINGTON, 22 January 1948, 6.52 p.m. SECRET FEC.3. [matter omitted] 2. McCoy also read a lengthy statement which will shortly be issued by State Department to the press. Full text sent under our memo JP.57. In brief it emphasises importance of achieving a self- supporting economy in Japan...’
291. TRUELOVE TO EGGLESTON: 3 February 1948; ‘Letter [CANBERRA], 3 February 1948 Mr. Dexter has asked me to write to you about Mr. Packer’s scheme for controlling the Japanese economy. [1] Both Mr. Cumes and myself have considered this plan as outlined in the attached extract from the A.C.J.S. [2] Minutes and Mr. Packer’s letter to Mr....’
292. CUMES TO EGGLESTON: 1 March 1948; ‘Memorandum [CANBERRA], 1 March 1948 CONTROL OF THE JAPANESE ECONOMY [matter omitted] The ‘Packer Plan’ [1] From the above [2] it will be clear that Mr. Packer’s contention that ‘departmental economists’ are not prepared to examine his plan and his implication that they are not prepared to engage in research...’
293. NOEL-BAKER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 21 July 1948; ‘Cablegram 200 LONDON, 21 July 1948 SECRET LEVEL OF ECONOMIC LIFE IN JAPAN Other Commonwealth Governments will have noticed the trend of thought in the United States (exemplified by the Strike and Johnston reports [1]) towards:- (A) Building up of Japanese Economy to a level considerably higher than that contemplated...’
294. CHIFLEY TO ATTLEE: 26 July 1948; ‘CANBERRA, 26 July 1948 TOP SECRET A short reply is being sent to the Commonwealth Relations office telegram No.200 [1], to which you referred in your personal message to me of 22nd July regarding the level of economic life in Japan. 2. This is a matter which we have been...’
295. MAKIN TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 4 October 1948; ‘Dispatch 64/48 WASHINGTON, 4 October 1948 SUBJECT: SOVIET STATEMENT AT F.E.C. CONCERNING JAPANESE INDUSTRY Attached is an analysis [1] prepared by Mr. Bullock of the statement made at the Far Eastern Commission on 23rd September by the Soviet Ambassador, Alexander S. Panyushkin, in which he proposed that there should be...’
296. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 1 November 1948; ‘Cablegram 911 CANBERRA, 1 November 1948, 5.55 p.m. SECRET Your 1130. SOVIET PROPOSAL ON JAPANESE INDUSTRIAL LEVELS 2. Whilst it can be assumed that Panyushkin’s resolution is designed mainly for subsequent propaganda purposes, it is outwardly innocuous and unobjectionable as regards its professed intention. Its general sentiments are difficult to...’
297. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 6 November 1948; ‘Cablegram 1172 WASHINGTON, 6 November 1948 SECRET F.E.C. 164. Your 911. [1] Soviet proposal on Japanese industry. We find it difficult to accept the conclusion that merely because Soviet proposal is outwardly innocuous and unobjectionable as regards its professed intention it would do no harm to be adopted by the...’
298. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 15 November 1948; ‘Cablegram 9 3 6 CANBERRA, 15 November 1948, 1.45 a.m. IMPORTANT SECRET Your 1176. [1] We would on the whole prefer you not to take too active a part in discussion on this proposal. If however, it becomes necessary for you to make a statement, general outline of your draft...’
299. GORDON WALKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 2 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 98 LONDON, 2 April 1948, 8.07 p.m. SECRET Your telegrams No. 112 of 7th May and No. 234 of 28th August, 1947. Disposal of the Japanese fleet. 2. Now that all bids from British Commonwealth have been received we wish to offer a share in the United Kingdom allocation...’
300. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO GORDON WALKER: 5 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 82 CANBERRA, 5 April 1948, 5.25 p.m. Your 98. [1] We cannot agree to the giving to the Netherlands of a share of the Japanese Fleet even though, in the opinion of the Admiralty, the craft concerned would be of ‘practically no offensive value’. We cannot see that there...’
301. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO GORDON WALKER AND FRASER: 20 April 1948; ‘Cablegrams 99, 74 CANBERRA, 20 April 1948, 5.23 p.m. SECRET JAPANESE REPARATIONS 1. Australian Government feels that total amount and distribution of reparations from Japan should be settled urgently. Nearly three years have elapsed since surrender. Assets in Japan are deteriorating; absence of firm decision makes it impossible to plan...’
302. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO GORDON WALKER: 20 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 100 CANBERRA, 20 April 1948, 5.55 p.m. SECRET JAPANESE REPARATIONS Following is text of Australian proposal referred to in our immediately preceding telegram: 1. INDUSTRIAL FACILITIES (a) Amount available. The total amount of industrial facilities from Japan made available as reparations should be those already declared available by the...’
303. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 8 May 1948; ‘Cablegram FEC75 WASHINGTON, 8 May 1948, 3.48 p.m. During the past week we have held series of detailed talks with British Commonwealth colleagues on your proposed reparations plan. All are impressed with the need for a vigorous effort to solve reparations shares deadlock. Since it is now beginning to dawn...’
304. NOEL-BAKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 11 May 1948; ‘Cablegram 138 LONDON, 11 May 1948, 10.50 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Addressed Canberra No.138, repeated New Zealand No. 114. Your telegrams Nos. 99 and 100 [1] of 20th and 21st April, repeated to External Wellington No. 74 and 75. Japanese reparations. Our expert advisers have been considering Australian proposals in the...’
305. MCINTOSH [1] TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 21 May 1948; ‘Cablegram 97 (extract) WELLINGTON, 21 May 1948, 6.35 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Reference your numbers 74, 75 [2] and 108 [3] to Minister of External Affairs, Wellington. JAPANESE REPARATIONS There is no possibility of having problem examined by Minister before the weekend and it may be some days before matter can...’
306. NOEL-BAKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 20 July 1948; ‘Cablegram 197 LONDON, 20 July 1948, 4.50 P.m. SECRET My telegram No.150, repeated New Zealand No.122. Japanese Reparations. The matter has now been considered by Ministers whose views were as follows:2. As regards Australian plan, Ministers fully share Commonwealth Government’s anxiety for an early settlement of the reparations problem having...’
307. UNITED STATES EMBASSY TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 11 May 1949; ‘Aide-memoire CANBERRA, 11 May 1949 [matter omitted] It is of essential importance to every nation interested in the attainment of economic and political stability in the Far East that the stabilization program now being inaugurated in Japan succeed and that a firm basis for Japanese economic self-support be established. The...’
308. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 17 May 1949; ‘Cablegram 283 CANBERRA, 17 May 1949, 3.07 p.m. RESTRICTED Your FEC 88 and 89. Japanese reparations and level of industry. In reply to Aide-Memoire from United States Embassy asking for our concurrence in proposals to be submitted to FEC by United States representative, we have said that the Australian Government...’
309. WARD TO MCINTYRE: 3 June 1949; ‘Minute [CANBERRA], 3 June 1949 The following suggestions are put forward as the basis of a policy we might adopt to meet the new turn in the Japanese Reparations problem arising from the change in the United States policy. [1] 2. Japan’s post-war economic development may be divided into two...’
310. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO NOEL-BAKER: 15 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 100 CANBERRA, 15 June 1949, 2.50 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Your H.226. [1] Japanese reparations and levels of industry. Recent United States’ proposals cannot be fully examined and discussed until United States Government submits to F.E.C. detailed plans for revision or amendment of existing policies. It will then be possible for...’
311. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 28 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 558 WASHINGTON, 28 June 1949, 6.31 p.m. RESTRICTED F.E.C. 106. JAPANESE REPARATIONS 1. The views outlined in your telegram 333 [1] have been informally presented to the State Department. 2. It is quite clear that there is little hope of influencing the United States to modify the general position...’
312. EVATT TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 6 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 328 CANBERRA, 6 April 1948, 5.45 a.m. SECRET We now have full text of General MacArthur’s message to United States War Department of 18th January which was published in Washington and Tokyo on 31st March. [1] We are not clear whether initiative in making it public came from House...’
313. EVATT TO MAKIN, FRASER AND SHAW: 22 April 1948; ‘Cablegrams 390, 78, 150 CANBERRA, 22 April 1948, 3.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE I am greatly concerned to see that more and more S.C.A.P. and the State Department are by-passing Far Eastern Commission and the [Allied] Control Council. 2. We have come to the conclusion, as I stated in the House that...’
314. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO EVATT: 4 May 1948; ‘Cablegram 558 WASHINGTON, 4 May 1948, 6.20 p.m. SECRET FEC 70. 1. Ambassador today handed to Saltzman, Assistant Secretary of State in charge of Occupied Areas, aide-memoire on whaling (your 431). [1] Saltzman undertook to examine the points raised. 2. Mr. Makin then took opportunity to draw attention to recent...’
315. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO EVATT: 12 June 1948; ‘Cablegram 732 WASHINGTON, 12 June 1948, 8 p.m. SECRET FEC 101. Saltzman today handed 17 page aide-memoire to Ambassador concerning recent representations to State Department and in FEC [1] concerning tendency on part of SCAP to resolve unilaterally matters properly within jurisdiction of FEC. Full text sent air mail. Following...’
316. MAKIN TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 28 October 1948; ‘Dispatch 68148 WASHINGTON, 28 October 1948 SUBJECT: UNITED STATES POLICY TOWARDS JAPAN Over the past week interest in United States policy towards Japan has been stimulated by an article in NEWSWEEK of October 25 purporting to give an ‘inside’ account of a ‘new’ United States policy. Reports from Tokyo correspondents...’
317. EVATT TO NOEL-BAKER, FRASER, GOVERNMENT OF INDIA AND ST LAURENT: 8 February 1949; ‘Cablegrams 21, 16, 3, 2 CANBERRA, 8 February 1949, 11 a.m. CONFIDENTIAL Recent developments in F.E.C. and in Japan make clear an increasing tendency on the part of the United States authorities to by-pass Commission and give it little or no voice in the formulation of Allied policy towards Japan....’
318. NOEL-BAKER TO EVATT: 9 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 19 LONDON, 9 February 1949, 8.10 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE CONFIDENTIAL Your telegram No.21. [1] We understand that next meeting of Far Eastern Commission will take place on 10th February. 2. We agree with you that everything possible must be done to maintain right of Far Eastern Commission powers to...’
319. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 15 March 1949; ‘Cablegram 244 WASHINGTON, 15 March 1949, 4.52 p.m. IMMEDIATE RESTRICTED FEC 48. Japanese Labour Situation. Your telegram 160. [1] We have discussed your suggested proposal with British Commonwealth colleagues who are pleased that some initiative is being taken in this problem. However, mainly in attempt to reduce opportunity for United...’
320. EVATT TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 25 July 1949; ‘Cablegram 395 CANBERRA, 25 July 1949, 5 p.m. RESTRICTED Your 478 (F.E.C. 99). Japanese labour legislation. United States Embassy here has presented aide-memoire on the subject of the Australian resolution [1], which the United States Government understands you intend to press to a vote in the full Commission on 28th...’
321. SHAW TO MACARTHUR: 24 March 1948; ‘Letter TOKYO, 24 March 1948 As you may have heard, Dr. Evatt recently instructed me to return to Australia for general consultations with himself and the Advisory Committee on the Pacific Peace Settlement. [1] My present plan is to leave Tokyo on Sunday 28th March and to return to Tokyo...’
322. SHAW TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 27 March 1948; ‘Cablegram 176 TOKYO, 27 March 1948, 1.40 a.m. SECRET Your telegram 109. Male-Catcher Vessels. In personal talk on 26th March General MacArthur condemned in the strongest terms your suggestion for making available Japanese vessels to Australia. Matter could, he said, be taken up with F.E.C. or [United States Government]. [1]...’
323. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 3 May 1948; ‘Cablegram 431 CANBERRA, 3 May 1948 SECRET Your 453. [1] Japanese Whaling. Please pass following aide-memoire to State Department: ‘The Australian Government has given careful consideration to the State Department’s aide-memoire of the 13th April, 1948, concerning the proposed Japanese Antarctic Whaling Expedition for the 1948/49 season and desires to...’
324. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 8 June 1948; ‘Cablegram 706 WASHINGTON, 8 June 1948, 7.24 p.m. SECRET F.E.C. 97. Japanese Whaling 1. Aide-memoire received from State Department today of which following are main points begins:- (A) Message received from S.C.A.P. states that after consideration of opposing views advanced by Australian and other interested Governments he has nevertheless been...’
325. SHAW TO EVATT: 13 January 1948; ‘Dispatch 1/1948 TOKYO, 13 January 1948 ALLIED COUNCIL FOR JAPAN I have the honour to report that in Section 3 of my dispatch No. 5 of 12th December, 1947 [1], I mentioned briefly the difficulties in maintaining the work of the Allied Council for Japan for the indefinite period which...’
326. MCKENZIE TO BURTON: 13 February 1948; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 13 February 1948 ALLIED COUNCIL FOP, JAPAN I have been directed by the Secretary, Department of External Affairs, Wellington, to inform you of our Department’s concern at the progressive deterioration in the affairs of the Allied Council, to which Mr. Shaw draws particular attention in his Ministerial Despatch...’
327. BURTON TO SHAW: 5 March 1948; ‘Memorandum 84 CANBERRA, 5 March 1948 SECRET ALLIED COUNCIL FOR JAPAN I refer to your Ministerial Despatches No. 5 of 12th December, 1947 [1], and No. 1 of 13th January, 1948 [2], in which you draw our attention to the work of the Allied Council and the difficulties inherent in...’
328. SHAW TO BURTON: 19 March 1948; ‘Dispatch 54/1948 TOKYO, 19 March 1948 SUBJECT: ALLIED COUNCIL FOR JAPAN 1. I refer to your memorandum No.84 [1] regarding the work of the Allied Council for Japan. I have taken up on an informal basis the suggestions you put forward which I discussed with Mr. Sebald yesterday. I told...’
329. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO MISSION IN TOKYO: 22 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 152 CANBERRA, 22 April 1948 SECRET Your Dept. 204 and 205 [1] and memorandum 196. [2] We are instructing our FEC representative to make firm protest at next meeting of FEC on 22nd April along the following lines:- (a) Bill, which appears to conflict with FEC basic policy and...’
330. EVATT TO SHAW: 28 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 156 TOKYO, 28 April 1948 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL Your 227 and 225. [1] While the attitude taken by you is fully appreciated it is regretted that telegrams to you on this subject were not authorised by me and were sent without my approval. I should be glad if for...’
331. SHAW TO EVATT: 28 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 232 TOKYO, 28 April 1948 SECRET Reference 156. [1] I propose to make the following brief statement to the Allied Council this morning:- ‘In bringing before the Allied Council the question of the recently passed Maritime Safety Authorities Bill, I have no wish to embark on a detailed examination...’
332. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO NOEL-BAKER, FRASER AND BAJPAI: 11 August 1948; ‘Cablegrams 207, 155, 15 CANBERRA, 11 August 1948, 4.15 p.m. SECRET LABOUR SITUATION IN JAPAN You will doubtless be aware of recent developments in Japan arising from letter from SCAP to Ashida [1] suggesting that Government workers in Japan be prohibited from striking. It appears that present Japanese Government has...’
333. SHAW TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 12 August 1948; ‘Cablegram 443 TOKYO, 12 August 1948 SECRET Your telegram 330. Today I gave the Chairman of the Allied Council provisional notice that tomorrow I would place on the agenda for the Allied Council meeting on August 18th, the question of labour legislation in the Japanese Public Service. The United Kingdom...’
334. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO NOEL-BAKER AND MISSION IN TOKYO: 16 August 1948; ‘Cablegrams 214, 348 CANBERRA, 16 August 1948, 6.10 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Our 207 [1] Japanese Public Service Legislation. We understand from United Kingdom High Commission Canberra and from British Commonwealth Member of Allied Council for Japan that United Kingdom Government would feel unable to associate itself with attempt to amend...’
335. EVATT TO BURTON: 16 August 1948; ‘Cablegram E11 LONDON, 16 August 1948, 1.08 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE PERSONAL AND SECRET JAPAN At special request of United Kingdom Government after discussion with Beven I have sent most immediate telegram to Shaw as follows:- Begins-United Kingdom Government is most anxious that you should not, at present, bring up matter...’
336. BURTON TO WALSHE [1]: 19 August 1948; ‘Cablegram E26 CANBERRA, 19 August 1948, 4.40 p.m. SECRET Our E.20. [2] Following from Shaw. You may care to convey to Dr. Evatt that in my opinion the question is urgent and of some considerable importance in the long term development of Japan. Your suggestion about enquiry for information in...’
337. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 3 September 1948; ‘Cablegram 786 CANBERRA, 3 September 1948 SECRET Our 757. 1. Question of labour relations in Japanese public service was discussed at special meeting of Allied Council on 28th [August], when Shaw outlined our position and offered help to SCAP HQ in view of experience of British Commonwealth countries in this...’
338. SHAW TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 11 September 1948; ‘Cablegram 502 TOKYO, 11 September 1948, 11.30 a.m. IMPORTANT SECRET My telegram 495 paragraph 6. 1. I had interview with General MacArthur on the evening of September 9th at which I broached the subject of Allied Council discussion on the Japanese Public Service. The Supreme Commander was moderate in his...’
339. COUNCIL OF DEFENCE SUBMISSION BY DEDMAN: 27 April 1948; ‘Agendum 12/1948 27 April 1948, TOP SECRET FUTURE POLICY FOR AUSTRALIAN PARTICIPATION IN THE BRITISH COMMONWEALTH OCCUPATION FORCE IN JAPAN 1. INTRODUCTION At the meeting of Ministers on the Council of Defence on 5th April, there was a discussion on the future of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force in relation...’
340. DEDMAN TO MAKIN: 7 May 1948; ‘Cablegram 445 CANBERRA, 7 May 1948 SECRET It is desired that a communication in the following terms be sent to the United States Government immediately: ‘The Australian Government has reviewed the position of its contingent of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force in Japan. As demilitarisation tasks in the B.C.O.F. area...’
341. SALTZMAN TO MAKIN: 8 July 1948; ‘Note (extract) WASHINGTON, 8 July 1948 CONFIDENTIAL The Government of the United States notes that the proposed reduction of the Australian contingent would leave a token British Commonwealth Force which would be inadequate for the occupation of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force Area. This area comprises 20,000 square miles and...’
342. MAKIN TO MARSHALL: 2 September 1948; ‘Note 328/48 (extract) WASHINGTON, 2 September, 1948 2. The United States Government having approved of the withdrawal of the United Kingdom, Indian and New Zealand contingents of the B.C.O.F. [1], the Force now consists of Australians, a few United Kingdom specialist personnel and some New Zealanders whose movement from Japan...’
343. SALTZMAN TO MAKIN: 7 February 1949; ‘Note (extract) WASHINGTON, 7 February, 1949 The United States Government regrets that the Australian Government has not found it possible to retain in Japan a British Commonwealth Force equivalent to one United States infantry division (less one regimental combat team) plus necessary service troops, as requested in this Department’s notes...’
344. SHAW TO BURTON: 27 October 1948; ‘Cablegram 3806 LONDON, 27 October 1948, 5.20 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL SECRET United Kingdom Board of Trade officials have informed us that American officials including representatives from the State Department and from G.H.Q. SCAP Tokyo, wish to visit London to discuss with United Kingdom and other Governments of the British Commonwealth [1]...’
345. KENNEDY TO BURTON: 5 November 1948; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 5 November 1948 I refer to confidential cablegram No. 3806 of 27th October, 1948 [1], from the High Commissioner’s Office, London, regarding discussions on the question of most-favoured-nation treatment for Japan and the background of American economic policy for Japan. 2. In August last a recommendation was made...’
346. SHAW TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 November 1948; ‘Dispatch 233 (extract) TOKYO, 20 November 1948 CONFIDENTIAL 2. At the preliminary Commonwealth talks [1] it was clear that no British country was particularly interested in extending M.F.N. to Japan without a much more detailed account of American economic planning for Japan than had yet been forthcoming. From the Australian...’
347. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 18 February 1949; ‘Cablegram 109 CANBERRA, 18 February 1949, 4 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL You will recall that at Geneva meeting of GATT countries the United States canvassed proposal for extension of most-favoured- nation treatment to Japan. This was followed by talks in London in November, 1948, between British Commonwealth countries and United States, and...’
348. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 5 March 1949; ‘Cablegram 216 WASHINGTON, 5 March 1949, 1.22 p.m. RESTRICTED F.E.C. 45. Most favoured nation treatment for Japan Your telegram No. 109 of 18th February. [1] United States would not accept the contention that a policy decision of F.E.C. would be necessary before SCAP could be authorised to negotiate with other...’
349. CUMES TO WADE [1]: 25 March 1949; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 25 March 1949 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL As I mentioned to you over the telephone, the Australian Delegation at the Third Session of the G.A.T.T. Contracting Parties [2] Will continue to oppose extension of most-favoured- nation treatment to Japan. From your Department’s Note of 26th February and memorandum of...’
350. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 April 1949; ‘Cablegram 363 WASHINGTON, 20 April 1949, 8.11 p.m. RESTRICTED F.E.C. 73. Japanese participation in International Relations. State Department advised us today that United States representative will introduce following proposal [1] into F.E.C. tomorrow:- In view of the fact that one of the basic objectives of the occupation of Japan is...’
351. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 29 April 1949; ‘Cablegram 253 CANBERRA, 29 April 1949, 12.20 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Your 363 and 368. [1] Japanese participation in international relations. We have now received a Note from the United States Embassy here communicating text of proposal put to F.E.C. and quoting the same arguments in its favour. Australian Government’s support is...’
352. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 4 May 1949; ‘Cablegram 413 WASHINGTON, 4 May 1949, 10.49 a.m. RESTRICTED FEC 85. Your 253. [1] Japanese participation in International Relations. The Minister agrees that the United States proposal is undesirable and should be strongly opposed. The question of Japanese Foreign Relations is a matter for all countries who contributed to the...’
353. EVATT TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 14 September 1949; ‘Cablegram 511 CANBERRA, 14 September 1949 IMMEDIATE RESTRICTED Your 837 (FEC 121). Japanese participation in technical conferences. We do not consider that Sub-Committee’s [1] draft policy decision [2] meets the position. We are prepared to recognise that there are certain international technical conventions to which Japan might properly subscribe even...’
354. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO EVATT: 9 November 1949; ‘Cablegram 1108 WASHINGTON, [9 November 1949] CONFIDENTIAL FEC.140. Our 1092 (FEC. 139) 1. Today Allison, Director of State Department Office of North East Asian Affairs gave us aide-memoire requesting and urging Australian support for United States proposal [1] which would permit the Japanese Government with the approval of S.C.A.P. to...’
355. EVATT TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 28 November 1949; ‘Cablegram 663 CANBERRA, 28 November 1949, 6.20 p.m. IMMEDIATE CONFIDENTIAL Your 1159 (FEC.142). Japanese Government trade agents. We have carefully considered arguments set forth in United States aide-memoire of 9th November [1] but do not see how we can support C4-339/15. We would not deny that now that two-way trade...’
356. MAKIN TO SPENDER: 20 December 1949; ‘Cablegram 1227 WASHINGTON, 20 December 1949, 9.24 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL FEC 148. State Department has requested that we abstain from voting in Far Eastern Commission on proposal which would permit Japanese Government to appoint agents in any country willing to receive them for the purpose of facilitating Japanese trade and/or handling...’
357. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 23 December 1949; ‘Cablegram 699 CANBERRA, 23 December 1949, 4.30 p.m. IMMEDIATE CONFIDENTIAL Your 1227 (FEC 148). [1] Minister agrees that you abstain from voting on proposal[s], stating at the same time that Australia’s views have already been expressed. You should also endeavour to have clause inserted in line with your paragraph 3....’
358. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 31 August 1949; ‘Cablegram 470 CANBERRA, 31 August 1949, 4.15 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL United States Embassy has informed us that it is proposed to direct the Supreme Commander to release to Thailand and France $80m (eighty million dollars) in gold which Japan had earmarked for those countries as a result of trade transactions between...’
359. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON AND NOEL-BAKER: 6 September 1949; ‘Cablegrams 485, 154 CANBERRA, 6 September 1949, 6.10 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Release of gold to Thailand and France. Your FEC. 113. [1] 1. We have now informed U.S. Embassy in reply to their Aides- memoire of 31st August and 5th September that after careful study Australian Government is unable to support...’
360. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 7 September 1949; ‘Cablegram 820 WASHINGTON, 7 September 1949, 7.34 p.m. EMERGENCY SECRET F.E.C. 116. Late this afternoon we were called to the State Department by Allison who, under instruction from Butterworth, reported at length the United States position with regard to the transfer of gold from Japan to Thailand and France. 2....’
361. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 8 September 1949; ‘Cablegram 828 WASHINGTON, 8 September 1949, 7.17 p.m. RESTRICTED F.E.C. 117. Your 499. [1] Gold for Thailand and France A firm statement along the lines of your recent telegrams made by the Ambassador at this morning’s meeting. Chinese and Indian representatives supported. Comments of various members are summarised as follows:...’
362. MAKIN TO BURTON: 9 September 1949; ‘Cablegram 831 WASHINGTON, 9 September 1949, 1.39 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET F.E.C. 119. Your 499. We have been considering how to bring this question to a vote as instructed in paragraph 4 of your 485 of 6th September [1] in view of time factor if the United States as seems most...’
363. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 9 September 1949; ‘Cablegram 835 WASHINGTON, 9 September 1949, 6.07 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET FEC 120. Thai Ambassador called on the Ambassador this morning and left a note of which the following is the summary: The Thai Government has requested the United States to release to the Bank of Thailand certain gold bars owned...’
364. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 13 September 1949; ‘Cablegram 509 WASHINGTON, 13 September 1949, 4.10 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Your 831 (FEC 119). [1] We consider the best course would be to try at Thursday’s meeting to have the matter brought to a vote on its merits. Our main argument should be that Thailand was at war with us and...’
365. NOTE BY MCINTYRE: 16 September 1949; ‘CANBERRA, 16 September 1949 JAPANESE GOLD FOR THAILAND AND INDO-CHINA Monsieur Priestley (French Charge d’Affaires) has recently asked to see the Minister for the purpose of discussing with him the matter of the French share of the gold which the United States wants to release from Japan to Thailand and...’
366. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 15 September 1949; ‘Cablegram 870 WASHINGTON, 15 September 1949, 6.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET F.E.C.122. 509. [1] At this morning’s meeting, we pressed issue to vote as instructed in your telegram under reference. Result of voting on Australian resolution ‘that issuance of directive be postponed until matter fully investigated and decided by F.E.C.’ is...’
367. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO MISSION IN TOKYO: 23 January 1948; ‘Cablegram 25 CANBERRA, 23 January 1948, 5.25 p.m. SECRET Trade with Japan. 1. We have been giving consideration to the practical measures that might be taken within the framework of the Interim Sterling Payments Agreement to break the present deadlock in reviving trade between Australia and Japan which is primarily...’
368. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO SHAW, WRIGLEY AND REIBELT: 23 January 1948; ‘Cablegram 26 CANBERRA, 23 January 1948, 4 p.m. SECRET 1. Please see our separate telegram of to-day’s date [1] regarding suggested basis for commencement of trade with Japan. 2. Adoption of this proposal would enable SCAP to finance the purchase of at least 50,000 bales of raw wool per year....’
369. NOEL-BAKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 27 January 1948; ‘Cablegram 25 LONDON, 27 January 1948, 2.50 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET My telegram 15th January No.12, paragraph 2. Trade with Japan. Australian High Commissioner’s Office in London have shown us Commonwealth Government’s three telegrams of 23rd January to the Australian Mission Tokyo (repeated to Washington and London) Nos. 25, 26 and...’
370. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO NOEL-BAKER: 4 February 1948; ‘Cablegram 26 CANBERRA, 4 February 1948, 3.10 p.m. SECRET Your telegram 25. [1] Trade with Japan. 1. We are glad to learn that your thoughts are running on similar lines to our own. 2. We fully agree with your view that comprehensive sterling agreement would be preferable to sectional bilateral...’
371. MISSION IN TOKYO TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 17 February 1948; ‘Cablegram Department 88 TOKYO, 17 February 1948, 12.30 p.m. SECRET Your telegram 49. Trade with Japan. Text of S.C.A.P. memorandum 091.31 (February 14th, 1948) ESS/FT, is as follows. 1. The proposal of the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia that private trade between the Commonwealth and Japan be reactivated [1],...’
372. NOEL-BAKER. TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 4 March 1948; ‘Cablegram 71 LONDON, 4 March 1948, 7.40 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET MY telegram 38 of 4th February. Trade with Japan. 1. Proposals for trade agreement with S.C.A.P. (on lines foreshadowed in my telegram 25 of 27th January [1]) have now been approved as a basis for discussion in the first instance...’
373. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO GORDON WALKER: 16 April 1948; ‘Cablegram 96 CANBERRA, 16 April 1948 SECRET Your telegram 71 [1], 72, and 106. Proposed Sterling Area Trade Agreement with SCAP 1. We have given consideration to prospective level and composition of trade between Australia and Japan on the assumption that overall Sterling Area trade agreement including cotton textiles can...’
374. EVATT TO MISSION IN TOKYO: 4 June 1948; ‘Cablegram 18 CANBERRA, 4 June 1948 Overall Sterling Payments Arrangements for Trade with Japan Following press release is being issued in Canberra to-day (3rd):- As a result of negotiations between the United Kingdom Government and the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers, an overall sterling payments arrangement, effective from 31st...’
375. REPORT BY CLARK, WRIGLEY AND MCWATTERS: 17 August 1948; ‘Extracts 17 August 1948 REPORT BY AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION ON MADE CONFERENCE IN TOKYO- JULY/AUGUST, 1948 1. This Report covers matters of policy and general interest in relation to the proceedings of the Conference and has been divided for convenience under the following headings. Detail has been emitted as far as...’
376. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO NOEL-BAKER: 1 October 1948; ‘Cablegram 263 CANBERRA, 1 October 1948. SECRET Your cablegram 239 of 21St September. Japanese Trade Arrangement. We have approved the draft text and concur in your suggestion that arrangements be made for the exchange of memoranda on the basis of the agreement as drafted. Authority to sign on behalf of...’
377. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO MISSION IN TOKYO: 29 June 1949; ‘Cablegram 195 CANBERRA, 29 June 1949, 5. 10 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL We understand from the United Kingdom Government that when discussions begin shortly about renewal of the sterling area trade arrangements SCAP is likely to propose that Japanese be allowed to attend as observers. 2. The United Kingdom Government feels that...’
378. MISSION IN TOKYO TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 5 August 1949; ‘Cablegram 311 TOKYO, 5 August 1949 RESTRICTED Negotiations 2. So far we have been able to keep SCAP on the defensive and question of sterling purchases has not yet come up for discussion. At the first meeting the matter of Japanese observers was raised and we replied that we would...’
379. PETERSON [1] TO POLLARD: 28 October 1949; ‘Minute [CANBERRA], 28 October 1949 TRADE WITH JAPAN Renewal of trade arrangement with Japan for the year 1949/50 Negotiations at Tokyo between the representatives of the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers on behalf of occupied Japan and of the Sterling Area participants which have been proceeding since August, have...’
380. COURTICE TO CHIFLEY: 31 October 1949; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 31 October 1949 Agreement has now been reached in Tokyo on the details of the Japan-Sterling Area Trade Arrangement for 1949/50. The final draft, copy of which is attached, represents a continuance of the principles embodied in the 1948/49 arrangement. You will be aware that Australia’s allocation for...’
381. NOEL-BAKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 1 November 1949; ‘Cablegram 182 LONDON, 1 November 1949, 9.32 p.m. IMMEDIATE RESTRICTED TRADE NEGOTIATIONS WITH JAPAN 1. We are informed by your High Commissioner’s Office that the Australian Government is pressing for additional purchasing power of 600,000 to cover essential steel requirements and we learn that the Australian Representative has also raised...’
382. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO NOEL-BAKER AND MISSION IN TOKYO: 7 November 1949; ‘Cablegrams 188, 328 CANBERRA, 7 November 1949, 9 p.m. SECRET IMMEDIATE Your telegram 182 [1] Trade Negotiations with Japan. We have given careful consideration to the points made in your telegram and are particularly glad to note your renewed assurances that you will be able to provide us with considerably...’
383. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING: 21 November 1949; ‘TOKYO, 21 November 1949 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN STERLING AR-EA PARTICIPANTS ON THE TRADE ARRANGEMENT WITH S.C.A.P. During the negotiations for the first Trade Arrangement with Occupied Japan a Memorandum of Understanding by die Sterling Area representatives on particular aspects of the Trade Arrangement was drawn up in Tokyo. [1]...’
384. NOEL-BAKER TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 9 December 1949; ‘Cablegram 198 LONDON, 9 December 1949, 8.15 p.m. RESTRICTED Your telegram No.206. [1] Trade Arrangement with Japan. 1. In view of the great difficulties which we have explained in earlier telegrams of providing additional 600,000 purchasing power to meet Australian Government’s request, we have been urgently investigating other possible solutions...’
385. PLIMSOLL [1] TO BURTON: 9 January 1948; ‘Cablegram 33 (extract) WASHINGTON, 9 January 1948, 10 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Following is the substance of conversation today with Butterworth, Chief of Office of Far Eastern Affairs, U.S.A. State Department. 1. Butterworth said 3 alternatives were open at present for Japanese Settlement, (A) Council of Foreign Ministers or some variant...’
386. BURTON TO WATT: 16 January 1948; ‘Cablegram 11 CANBERRA, 16 January 1948 SECRET Minister has been giving consideration to taking initiative in securing Japanese Settlement in the light of complete United States-United Kingdom failure to achieve results. Minister has considered approaching Soviet on basis of assurance that territorial arrangements made during the war by Big Three...’
387. WATT TO BURTON: 21 January 1948; ‘Cablegram 21 Moscow, 21 January 1948, 7.45 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Your telegram 11. [1] JAPANESE SETTLEMENT 1. I agree that Australian initiative seems necessary and the proposed assurance to the Soviet should be sufficient. At the same time I doubt whether the Soviet will accept any proposal which they will...’
388. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO LEGATION IN MOSCOW: 5 March 1948; ‘Cablegram 49 CANBERRA, 5 March 1948 Your 50. [1] We assume that you will continue to do all that is practicable to keep our views on the Japanese Peace Settlement before the Soviet authorities as occasion permits. 2. We are naturally most anxious that nothing should be done to prejudice...’
389. WATT TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 14 March 1948; ‘Cablegram 95 MOSCOW, 14 March 1948, 6.50 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET JAPANESE PEACE SETTLEMENT 1. On March 13th I had an 80 minute interview with Zorin, the last twenty minutes of which was taken up by discussion of the question of status of missions which is dealt with in separate telegram....’
390. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 27 May 1949; ‘Cablegram 472 WASHINGTON, 27 May 1949, 6.14 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL FEC.97. JAPANESE PEACE CONFERENCE Allison, Deputy Director, Office of F[ar] Eastern Affairs, asked us informally today whether Australia still held to the view that preliminary talks on a Peace Treaty should not be held exclusively by C.F.M. [1] We referred him...’
391. DEXTER TO MCINTYRE: 12 August 1949; ‘[CANBERRA], 12 August 1949 AUSTRALIA’S FUTURE POLICY TOWARDS JAPAN 1. Shaw’s Despatch 85 raises the question of our future policy towards Japan. For the past two years we have been talking in the language of August 1947, i.e. all will be solved if there is an immediate peace treaty which...’
392. ROBERTSON [1] TO STURDEE [2]: 5 September 1949; ‘Cablegram Z69 TOKYO, 5 September 1949 TOP SECRET Ref my memo GSO45.31SD of 30 Jul forwarding SCAP directive no, five amendment no. seven. Following information reached me from sources which I have never found inaccurate. One. Regarding statements of Australian and Japanese Prime Ministers about a peace treaty there is...’
393. DEFENCE COMMITTEE AGENDUM: 13 October 1949; ‘Agendum 127/1949 [MELBOURNE], 13 October 1949 TOP SECRET PEACE TREATY WITH JAPAN The Department of External Affairs was recently furnished with a copy of signal Z.69 dated 5th September [1], from the Commander- in-Chief B.C.O.F. concerning a Peace Treaty with Japan. The attention of the Department of External Affairs was...’

Documents on Australian Foreign Policy

Volume 14: Australia and the Postwar World – The Commonwealth, Asia and the Pacific, 1948–1949

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