Cablegram 1561, LONDON, 18 May 1948, 4.30 p.m.
SECRET
My telegram 1515. Italian Colonies.
Following letter has been received from the Secretary General of Deputies.
‘In reply your letter 28th October 1947 I am instructed by Conference of Deputies of Foreign Ministers of U.S.S.R., United Kingdom, United States and France to inform you about the following:-
1. Government of Australia shall be afforded opportunity to present their views to Deputies orally or in writing according to wish of Government regarding disposal of former Italian Colonies. At same time it is advisable receive these views from Government of Australia at such a time that will give Deputies an opportunity to have studied in accordance with procedure established by them points of view of other interested Governments presented to them before reports of Four Power Commission of Investigation are received i.e. on Thursday 10th June 1948 (or if in writing by same date).
2. I am also instructed by Deputies to inform Government of Australia that copies of Reports of Commission shall be sent immediately upon their completion to Government of Australia giving them right after examination of reports to present supplementary views to Council of Deputies either in writing or orally should they so desire.’ 2. Possible that India and South Africa will rely on letters they have already addressed to Deputies of which you have copies of first statement of views claiming right to present supplementary views after receiving Reports of Commission of Investigation.
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[AA : A1838, 85/4/3]