Documents on Australian Foreign Policy

1. MR R.G. CASEY, TREASURER, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 3 January 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 3 January 1939 CONFIDENTIAL [On 21 December 1938 A.C.V. Melbourne, Professor of History at the University of Queensland, wrote to the Prime Minister, J.A. Lyons, to urge that Australia should improve her relations with Japan. Professor Melbourne argued that Japan was aware of the weakness of the United...’
2. MR R.G. MENZIES, ATTORNEY-GENERAL AND MINISTER FOR INDUSTRY, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 5 January 1939; ‘Letter MELBOURNE, 5 January 1939 I have read the letter addressed to you by Professor A. C. V. Melbourne. [1] I thoroughly agree that the granting of credits to China by the United Kingdom should not be a matter solely for the Government of the United Kingdom, though I should...’
3. MR J.S. DUNCAN, ACTING HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 6 January 1939; ‘Cablegram 3 LONDON, 6 January 1939 SECRET #### Reference Dominions Office telegram, unnumbered, 24th December, regarding General Act for Pacific Settlement of International Disputes. [1] There seem to be differences of view between Ministers here. Some feel that denunciation would lend itself to misrepresentation and raise important political issue and...’
4. MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR M. MACDONALD, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, AND TO MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER: 11 January 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 11 January 1939, SECRET (a) The following telegram has been despatched to the Prime Minister of New Zealand. Begins- (b) Your telegram of 22nd December, 1938. [1] My Government cordially concurs in the suggestion that the Conference should be held in New Zealand and will be prepared to...’
5. MR A.G. CAMERON, POSTMASTER-GENERAL, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 12 January 1939; ‘Letter ADELAIDE, 12 January 1939 I acknowledge yours of 29th December covering copy of a letter from Professor R.C. [sic] Melbourne, on which you request my comments. [1] The chief points brought out in Professor Melbourne’s letter centre round the extent to which Australian national security may be jeopardised by...’
6. MR W.M. HUGHES, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 17 January 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered SYDNEY, 17 January 1939 Professor Meldrum’s [sic] letter [1] hardly calls for comment. It contains nothing new. With some of it I violently disagree. I strongly advise taking no notice whatever of it. Will write on my return from Western tour. [2] Regards. HUGHES _ 1 See Document...’
7. CABINET SUBMISSION BY MR W.M. HUGHES, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 23 January 1939; ‘Agenda 534 23 January 1939, [On 9 January 1939 F. Strahan, Secretary of the Prime Minister’s Department, wrote to Lt Col W.R. Hodgson, Secretary of the Department of External Affairs, forwarding the request of the Prime Minister, J.A. Lyons, to ‘let him have some notes’ on the General Act. W.M....’
8. CABINET SUBMISSION BY MR W.M. HUGHES, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 24 January 1939; ‘Agenda 15 24 January 1939, SEPARATION OF THE COVENANT OF THE LEAGUE FROM THE PEACE TREATY At the recent League of Nations Assembly held in September 1938, various questions relating to the reform of the Covenant of the League were fully discussed and a memorandum upon the decisions reached was...’
9. MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 24 January 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered WELLINGTON, 24 January 1939, 11.30 a.m. SECRET With reference to your telegram of 12th January, I have to thank you for agreeing to join in the proposed Conference. I contemplate a conference on the lines of your second alternative, i.e. covering the strategic situation in the Western Pacific...’
10. MR M. MACDONALD, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 25 January 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram B20 LONDON, 25 January 1939, 5.24-9.22P.m. [1] MOST SECRET Following for Prime Minister:- Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs [2] has received a large number of reports from various reliable sources which throw a most disquieting light on Hitler’s [3] mood and intentions. According to these reports Hitler...’
11. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT U.K. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, TO MR R. G. CASEY, TREASURER: 25 January 1939; ‘Letter (extract) WASHINGTON, 25 January 1939 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL [On 5 December 1938 Casey wrote a personal letter to Officer in which he asked for Officer’s views on upgrading Australia’s representation in the United States (ANL: Officer, MS 2629/1/631). The following extract is taken from the reply.] The position as...’
12. MR W.M. HUGHES, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 26 January 1939; ‘Letter SYDNEY, 26 January 1939 CONFIDENTIAL Mr W.A. Freeman [1] and Mr Griffin [2] called to see me with reference to Mr Dodson’s mission to Lisbon. [3] They gave me a copy of a letter which they had received from Mr Dodson, which I enclose. [4] In view of the...’
13. LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICE, LONDON: 27 January 1939; ‘Cablegram 6 27 January 1939, General Act. With reference to Dominions Office Circular F. No. 1 of 12th January [1] no decision can be given from here until Cabinet meeting of 7th February. [2] You could however intimate informally that Minister [3] recommends Cabinet will be against denunciation. HODGSON _...’
14. MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR M. MACDONALD, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 27 January 1939; ‘Cablegram 9 27 January 1939, I am in receipt of your Circular telegram B. 20 of 25th January [1] for which I thank you. The contents have been noted and we will await your further informations. [2] J.A.LYONS _ 1 Document 10. 2 The Acting High Commissioner in London, J....’
15. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 31 January 1939; ‘Cablegram 10 31 January 1939, Reference my 69 Timor Oil Concessions. [1] Although representations by British Embassy Lisbon were made to Portuguese Government early last August on behalf of Oil Search Ltd it is understood decision as to leases cannot be obtained from Minister for Colonies. [2] Representative of Company...’
16. MR R.R. SEDGWICK, OFFICIAL SECRETARY TO U.K. 16 HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO MR F. STRAHAN, SECRETARY OF PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT: 8 February 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 8 February 1939 IMMEDIATE SECRET With reference to your letter of the 27th January (E.41/1) [1], regarding the question of the possible denunciation of the General Act for the Pacific Settlement of International Disputes, I am directed by the High Commissioner to inform you that he has received...’
17. MR J.S. DUNCAN, ACTING HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 9 February 1939; ‘Cablegram 35 LONDON, 9 February 1939 SECRET FOR HIMSELF GENERAL ACT. Dominions Office are sending you message tonight. [1] At C.I.D. meeting today decision reached by United Kingdom Ministers was that some action should be taken before 15th February. [2] Prime Minister [3] is being asked to decide between two...’
18. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 10 February 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram F2 (paraphrase) LONDON, 10 February 1939, 2 a.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Reference my telegram of 24th December [1] Canada No. 71 Commonwealth of Australia No. 126 New Zealand No. 189 and connected correspondence regarding General Act and Optional Clause. His Majesty’s Government in the United Kingdom have given further...’
19. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 10 February 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram F3 LONDON, 10 February 1939, 2 a.m. SECRET Following is proposed note to Secretary General of League of Nations. [1] Begins. I am directed by Viscount Halifax [2] to inform you that His Majesty’s Government in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland have had under...’
20. MR J.S. DUNCAN, ACTING HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON (IN AUSTRALIA): 10 February 1939; ‘Cablegram 36 LONDON, 10 February 1939, 5.40 p.m. SECRET FOR HIMSELF In view of the Palestinian talks now proceeding here [1] and the effect upon Australia of hostile Arab States imperilling communications, do you not think desirable that the Government should send some message firstly that the Government looks forward...’
21. CABINET SUBMISSION BY MR W.M. HUGHES, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 13 February 1939; ‘MELBOURNE, 13 February 1939 GENERAL ACT FOR THE PACIFIC SETTLEMENT OF INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES It will be remembered that during its Hobart sessions Cabinet gave consideration to the suggestion of a Sub-Committee of the Committee of Imperial Defence that notice of denunciation of the General Act for the pacific settlement of...’
22. MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER, TO DOMINIONS OFFICE: 14 February 1939; ‘Cablegram [161] n.d. [c. 14 February 19391, Your F2 of 10th February [2] General Act. Commonwealth Government have again given consideration to whole question including your proposed communication to League of Nations. We adhere to opinion expressed in cablegram 7th February [3] as we feel that the political objections on...’
23. MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER: 14 February 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 14 February 1939, PERSONAL FOR MR CHAMBERLAIN HIMSELF We are following with closest attention the reported Proceedings of the Palestine Conference [1] and we would like to receive full information of the progress of the talks. We regard the situation in Egypt, Palestine and in fact the whole...’
24. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO N.Z. GOVERNMENT AND TO SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 15 February 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered/18 15 February 1939, SECRET (2) No. 18. Following telegram has been sent to the New Zealand Government- Full consideration has been given to the proposals contained in your telegram of 24th January. [1] While being in full agreement concerning the holding of a Conference it would appear that...’
25. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT U.K. EMBASSY, WASHINGTON, TO MR R. G. CASEY, TREASURER: 16 February 1939; ‘Letter (extract) WASHINGTON, 16 February 1939 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL As regards my long letter to you of the 25th January [1], I have had a note from Stirling [2] calling attention to the Various reports regarding our representation here, and asking me my views, and I felt that as we...’
26. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 16 February 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 16 February 1939, 9.48 p.m. PERSONAL SECRET I am much obliged for your telegram of 14th February. [1] I greatly appreciate the close attention with which His Majesty’s Governments in the Dominions are following the discussions on Palestine, and arrangements are being made for communicating to your,...’
27. MR TORAO WAKAMATSU, JAPANESE CONSUL-GENERAL IN SYDNEY, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 17 February 1939; ‘Letter SYDNEY, 17 February 1939 CONFIDENTIAL I have the honour to bring under your notice certain events that have occurred recently and certain influences prevailing here, which are having a disturbing effect upon my functioning as a representative of a country in amicable relationship with the Commonwealth of Australia, and...’
28. MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 17 February 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered WELLINGTON, 17 February 1939, 6 p.m. SECRET Your secret telegram of 15th February. [1] I appreciate your apprehension of the difficulties that may militate against a successful defence conference at an early date. I fully realise the importance and difficulties of some of the questions that it is...’
29. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 20 February 1939; ‘Cablegram 13 LONDON, 20 February 1939, 10.13 p.m. Your telegram of 15th February, No. 18. [1] Prime Minister of New Zealand has repeated to us his telegram to you of 17th February. [2] We had already informed His Majesty’s Government in New Zealand of our views that adequate consideration of...’
30. SUBMISSION BY DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS FOR MR W.M. HUGHES, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 24 February 1939; ‘24 February 1939 RECOGNITION OF GENERAL FRANCO 1. The question of the recognition of the Nationalist Government as the de jure government of Spain became of immediate importance after the fall of Barcelona. Before proceeding to formal recognition, however, the British and French Governments commenced negotiations with a view to...’
31. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER, AND TO SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 28 February 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered/21 28 February 1939, SECRET 2. No. 21. The following telegram has been sent to the Prime Minister of New Zealand:- Your secret telegram 17th February [1] reference proposed defence Conference. Advice received that United Kingdom Government will be represented on defence matters by Service Officers. Commonwealth Government is...’
32. MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER, TO SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 1 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 22 1 March 1939, Your telegram Circular B. No. 77. [1] Following on decision of Commonwealth Government February 28th [2] it would be appreciated if Charge d’Affaires Burgos [3] could be requested to give notification that the Commonwealth Government accords de jute recognition to the Government of General Franco....’
33. MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 2 March 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered WELLINGTON, 2 March 1939, 1.40 p.m. SECRET Defence Conference. I am very grateful for your telegram of 28th February [1] and I entirely concur with the reservations that you have made concerning certain items on the Agenda. The question of the date must now depend upon the time...’
34. MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR TORAO WAKAMATSU, JAPANESE CONSUL-GENERAL IN SYDNEY: 3 March 1939; ‘Letter 3 March 1939, CONFIDENTIAL Your letter of 17th February, 1939 [1], with its exhibits, has been carefully considered by the Commonwealth Government. It is felt that the press extracts quoted by you do not represent the real view of the Australian people, who are appreciative of the old and...’
35. MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER: 3 March 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 3 March 1939 SECRET I desire to refer again to your letter of 23rd September, 1938 [1], concerning the question of interchange of information between the Governments of New Zealand and Australia. I have consulted my colleague the Minister for Defence [2], and am now in a position...’
36. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 11 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 21 LONDON, 11 March 1939, 10.06 a.m. Your telegram of 1st March No. 22. [1] Minister for Foreign Affairs at Burgos [2] was notified on 2nd March of the decision of His Majesty’s Government in the Commonwealth of Australia to recognise de jure General Franco’s Government as the Government...’
37. ADMIRAL SIR RAGNAR COLVIN, FIRST NAVAL MEMBER, NAVAL BOARD, TO ADMIRAL SIR ROGER BACKHOUSE, U.K. FIRST SEA LORD: 14 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 1700/14 MELBOURNE, 14 March 1939, 5 p.m. PERSONAL For your very confidential information. I understand High Commissioner Bruce [1] has informed Australian Cabinet that in his opinion Great Britain will be unable to send capital ship forces to Singapore in event of war with Japanese while at war in...’
38. CABINET SUBMISSION BY MR H.V.C. THORBY, MINISTER FOR CIVIL AVIATION: 14 March 1939; ‘Agenda 603 14 March 1939, PROPOSED AIR SERVICE DARWIN TO DILLI (PORTUGUESE TIMOR) 1. It is proposed for Cabinet consideration that an air service be established from Darwin to Dilli in Portuguese Timor. 2. This proposal arises from a visit made by Vice-Consul Lambert of the British Consular Service to...’
39. MR TORAO WAKAMATSU, JAPANESE CONSUL-GENERAL IN SYDNEY, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 15 March 1939; ‘Letter SYDNEY, 15 March 1939 CONFIDENTIAL I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of March 3rd [1], and to express my gratitude for the careful consideration given by you to the representations contained in my letter of February 17th [2] regarding various undesirable factors which are...’
40. MR J.S. DUNCAN, ACTING HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON (IN AUSTRALIA): 16 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 59 LONDON, 16 March 1939 SECRET FOR HIS SIGHT ONLY In view developments in Europe it is in my personal view possible that Colonial question may become issue between Germany and British Empire earlier than might otherwise have been expected. There seem to me to be three decisions which...’
41. ADMIRAL SIR ROGER BACKHOUSE, U.K. FIRST SEA LORD, TO ADMIRAL SIR RAGNAR COLVIN, FIRST NAVAL MEMBER, NAVAL BOARD: 17 March 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 17 March 1939 PERSONAL Your 1700/14. [1] AU these matters are now being considered here but there has never been doubt that a force of Capital Ships would have to be sent to East in event of war with Japan. What is uncertain is strength of this...’
42. NOTE BY MR J.S. DUNCAN, ACTING HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, OF CONVERSATION WITH MAJ GEN H.L. ISMAY, SECRETARY OF U.K. COMMITTEE OF IMPERIAL DEFENCE: 17 March 1939; ‘LONDON, 17 March 1939 Mr Stirling [1] brought to my notice yesterday evening copy of the Minutes of a meeting of the Committee of Imperial Defence held on the 24th January last. [2] At this meeting, at which the Prime Minister [3] was present, consideration was given to an Appreciation...’
43. LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON: 20 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 12 20 March 1939, SECRET Consul General Czechoslovakia [1] reports he received visit this morning from Consul General of Germany [2] who stated that on instructions from Foreign Office Berlin he requested the Consulate to be handed over. Consul General said he had no instructions and would have to...’
44. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 62 LONDON, 20 March 1939 SECRET Timor. I understand Dominions Office are shortly telegraphing to United Kingdom High Commissioner, Canberra [1], with regard to representations on behalf of Commonwealth to Portuguese Government concerning Timor to which Portuguese Government have not yet replied despite a recent reminder. They are also...’
45. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 63 LONDON, 20 March 1939 SECRET Czechoslovak Consulate-General. Foreign Office, who have received similar enquiries from Egypt and Palestine, are now investigating legal position and have promised to advise me immediately it is ascertained. Meanwhile United Kingdom Government are continuing to treat Czechoslovak Minister [1] at London as heretofore,...’
46. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 20 March 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 20 March 1939, 9 p.m. IMMEDIATE PERSONAL AND MOST SECRET With reference to our telephone conversations [1] I can only confirm as regards the general position what I said to you, viz. that the United Kingdom Government regard the international situation as Serious. You will however see...’
47. MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER: 21 March 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 21 March 1939, I acknowledge and thank you for the numerous telegrams of the last few days on the European position. [1] We are entirely behind you in the action you are taking in an endeavour to stop further deterioration of the situation. LYONS _ 1 On 15...’
48. MR J.S. DUNCAN, ACTING HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER, AND TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON (IN AUSTRALIA): 21 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 64 (extract) LONDON, 21 March 1939, 12.24a.m. HIMSELF AND BRUCE I questioned Inskip [1] a few days ago in regard to Japanese occupations in the Pacific. In reply to my request for information he expressed the following views: While eighteen months ago occupation of Hainan was regarded as fairly...’
49. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 21 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 67 LONDON, 21 March 1939 In continuation of telegram No. 63 [1], legal position not yet ascertained, but Foreign Office today advised British Ambassador at Cairo [2] that recognition of Czech Charge d’Affaires at London [3] has not yet been withdrawn. Charge d’Affaires still in occupation of Legation house...’
50. MR R.R. SEDGWICK, OFFICIAL SECRETARY OF U.K. HIGH COMMISSION IN AUSTRALIA, TO MR F. STRAHAN, SECRETARY OF PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT: 21 March 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 21 March 1939 SECRET I am directed by the High Commissioner [1] to refer to the Commonwealth Government’s telegram No. 10 of the 31st January to the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs regarding oil concessions in Timor [2], and to state that His Majesty’s Ambassador at Lisbon...’
51. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO U.K. EMBASSY, TOKYO: 22 March 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 22 March 1939, SECRET Please convey the following to Colonel Lloyd. [1] Desire you furnish immediately any references or brief extracts of anti- Australian sentiment without relation to provocative acts by Australia made or published in Japan recently. Consul-General Japan [2] is protesting against anti-Japanese attitude here and...’
52. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT U.K. EMBASSY, WASHINGTON, TO MR R.G. CASEY, TREASURER: 22 March 1939; ‘Letter (extract) WASHINGTON, 22, March 1939 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL On Monday I sent to Hodgson [1] a short telegram on the situation here. [2] The Ambassador [3] agreed with me that it was a good thing to send it, and we are both hoping that it will encourage the Government...’
53. MR R.R. SEDGWICK, OFFICIAL SECRETARY OF U.K. HIGH COMMISSION IN AUSTRALIA, TO MR F. STRAHAN, SECRETARY OF PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT: 22 March 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 22 March 1939 SECRET With reference to my Secret letter of the 21St March [1], regarding oil concessions in Timor, I am directed by the High Commissioner [2] to transmit the enclosed copy of a further telegram, dated the 20th March, which has been sent to His Majesty’s...’
54. MR H.F. FARRANDS, ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT, TO MR R.R. SEDGWICK, OFFICIAL SECRETARY OF U.K. HIGH COMMISSION IN AUSTRALIA: 23 March 1939; ‘Letter 23 March 1939, I desire to acknowledge receipt of your letters of 21st [1] and 22nd March [2] relative to Portuguese Timor, and to ask you to be good enough to inform the High Commissioner [3] that this question was discussed by the Commonwealth Government on Wednesday, March 22nd...’
55. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 24 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 69 LONDON, 24 March 1939 SECRET Japan. British Ambassador in Tokyo [1] sent on March 23rd his views on the best policy to follow in the Far East in view of the renewed threat of European war. Assuming that Japan has not yet undertaken any further commitments in negotiations...’
56. U.K. EMBASSY, TOKYO, 56 TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 24 March 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered TOKYO, 24 March 1939, 8.10 p.m. Following from Colonel Lloyd [1] begins. Your telegram of 22nd March. [2] There are no examples disagreeably mentioned here regarding Australia specifically. Nothing of a complaining type either since the iron ore embargo and in lessening degree scrap iron loading trouble whilst...’
57. SIR ROBERT CRAIGIE, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO JAPAN, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 25 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 3 TOKYO, 25 March 1939, 5.57 P.m. Following from Colonel Lloyd [1]- (Begins) Continuing yesterday’s message [2] : hi my meetings with senior Japanese officials during recent weeks, in no cases have they advanced any vestige of complaint regarding Australian attitude upon the contrary they volunteered the indication that...’
58. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON: 29 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 15 29 March 1939, CONFIDENTIAL Your telegram No. 67. [1] Commonwealth Government has been advised by Consul General Czechoslovakia [2] that acting on instructions from Prague he had handed over Consulates in Australia to Consul General Germany [3] who also reports similarly. Commonwealth Government has not recognized this action...’
59. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON: 29 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 16 29 March 1939, Reference your 69. [1] Opinions of Ambassador [2] have been under consideration by Commonwealth Government in conjunction question mentioned my immediately succeeding telegram [3] but Minister [4] before submitting any views to United Kingdom Government wants to know if telegram of March 23rd [5] was...’
60. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON: 29 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 17 29 March 1939, Reference personal telegram Prime Minister to Lyons 21St. March [1] giving assurance about capital ships based on Singapore in regard to which Minister [2] desires you to obtain amplification and clarification from Horace Wilson. [3] At Cabinet meeting yesterday Bruce [4] reinforced by view of...’
61. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER: 29 March 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 29 March 1939, SECRET Further to my telegram of 28th February, reference forthcoming Defence Conference. As Item (C) [2] is a question of high political importance on which decision must rest with Government, Commonwealth Government feels that Service representatives should not be placed in the position of having...’
62. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 29 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 75 LONDON, 29 March 1939 SECRET Your telegram No. 15.1 I have made enquiries daily but the United Kingdom Government has not yet reached a decision with regard to the future of the Czechoslovak Legation and Consulates. Understand the matter is now with the Secretary of State for Foreign...’
63. MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER, TO SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 30 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 34 30 March 1939, SECRET You will recall that during 1936 the question of the appointment of Australian Counsellors at British Embassies was discussed with the United Kingdom Government, and as a consequence an experiment was made with the appointment of a Counsellor at Washington. The system of liaison...’
64. MR J.S. DUNCAN, ACTING HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER: 30 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 78 LONDON, 30 March 1939, 8.42 p.m. SECRET HIMSELF At meeting this evening the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs [1] informed the High Commissioners of the decision being conveyed in Dominions Office telegram 126 to you tonight. [2] It is hoped that the French and Polish replies will...’
65. MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 31 March 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered WELLINGTON, 31 March 1939, 12.33 p.m. SECRET Your telegram of 29th March. [1] I largely agree with your views concerning the necessity for a general reservation that many, if not all, of the subjects to be discussed at the forthcoming Conference must finally depend on the approval of...’
66. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 31 March 1939; ‘Cablegram 81 LONDON, 31 March 1939 In continuation of my telegram No. 76 [1], Sir Horace Wilson [2] referred the matter to the Admiralty and I saw the First Lord [3] and Deputy Chief of Naval Staff [4] this afternoon. They have undertaken to furnish a statement of the position...’
67. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER: 1 April 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 1 April 1939, SECRET Your telegram of 31st March. [1] Owing to existing international situation and fact that Commonwealth Parliament opens 19th April, I regret that attendance of Minister at Defence Conference will not be possible. We have telegraphed you today that Captain E.C. Johnston of Civil Aviation...’
68. MR J.A. LYONS, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR TORAO WAKAMATSU, JAPANESE CONSUL-GENERAL IN SYDNEY: 3 April 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 3 April 1939 With reference to your letter of 15th March, 1939 [1], I have noted with gratification the expression of your appreciation of the efforts of the Commonwealth Government to preserve and promote friendly relations between Australia and Japan. In this connection I can say that I...’
69. MR R.R. SEDGWICK, OFFICIAL SECRETARY OF U.K. HIGH COMMISSION IN AUSTRALIA, TO MR F. STRAHAN, SECRETARY OF PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT: 3 April 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 3 April 1939 SECRET With reference to my Secret letter of the 23rd March [1] regarding oil concessions in Timor, I am directed by the High Commissioner [2] to inform you that he has now received a telegram from his Government stating that His Majesty’s Ambassador at Lisbon...’
70. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 4 April 1939; ‘Cablegram 86 LONDON, 4 April 1939 MOST SECRET PERSONAL FOR HODGSON In continuation of my telegram No. 811, the First Lord [2] today made the following statement available. (Begins) ‘Secret. In our view, it is considered unlikely that Japan will take any precipitate action on the outbreak of hostilities in...’
71. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 6 April 1939; ‘Cablegram 39 6 April 1939, The following telegram has been despatched to His Majesty’s Ambassador at Lisbon [1]: (begins) Commonwealth Government as you are aware from representations made in connection with Oil Search are desirous for strategical and political reasons to counteract penetration in Portuguese Timor by other foreign interests....’
72. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 19 April 1939; ‘Cablegram 107 LONDON, 19 April 1939 SECRET Czechoslovak Consulate-General. In continuation of my telegram No. 75 [1] Foreign Office advised to-day that United Kingdom Government has not yet reached a decision in this matter. Position of Czechoslovak diplomatic and consular officials in United Kingdom is the same as before. STIRLING...’
73. BROADCAST SPEECH BY MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 26 April 1939; ‘Extract 26 April 1939, The cause of our troubles is a disturbed world. My Government will exercise whatever influence it possesses in the direction of peace. I am not yet among those who regard war as inevitable. Patience and understanding, and quiet firmness, may yet avert it, although I believe...’
74. SIR HARRY BATTERBEE, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO NEW ZEALAND, TO SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 26 April 1939; ‘Dispatch 23 (extract from copy) WELLINGTON, 26 April 1939 SECRET [The Pacific Defence Conference was held in Wellington, New Zealand, from 14 to 26 April 1939. The Australian delegation was led by Sir Ragnar Colvin (Chief of the Naval Staff), who also represented the Royal Navy; other members were Colonel...’
75. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA: 29 April 1939; ‘Cablegram 97 LONDON, 29 April 1939, 11 p.m. SECRET Telegram from Commonwealth Government of 30th March, No. 34. [1] Secret. We were on point of replying to the telegram under reference on lines of draft contained in my immediately following telegram but in view of announcement of intentions of Commonwealth...’
76. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA: 29 April 1939; ‘Cablegram 98 (paraphrase) LONDON, 29 April 1939, 11.30 p.m. SECRET Reference my immediately preceding telegram [1] Following is draft telegram to His Majesty’s Government in the Commonwealth of Australia. Begins. Your telegram of 3oth March, No. 34 [2], Secret. It is regretted that an earlier reply has not been sent...’
77. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO U.K. DOMINIONS OFFICE: 3 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 80 (paraphrase) CANBERRA, 3 May 1939 SECRET Your telegram No. 97 of the 29th April [1] regarding Commonwealth representation at Washington and Tokyo, premature disclosure here was due not to official statement, but to leakage-see my letter to Stephenson of the 19th April. [2] Lyons [3] was greatly upset...’
78. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO U.K. DOMINIONS OFFICE: 5 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 84 (paraphrase) CANBERRA, 5 May 1939 SECRET Mr Menzies at his first meeting with Parliament as Prime Minister announced that he intended to have periodical debates on international affairs, the first of which would take place on Tuesday next. This announcement has been well received. I subsequently sought an...’
79. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT U.K. EMBASSY, WASHINGTON, TO LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 5 May 1939; ‘Letter P & C 13139 (extracts) WASHINGTON, 5 May 1939 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL I wrote to you last on March 30th [1], and from April 6th until May 1st I was away en route to the West Coast to meet Mr Bruce and with him there and on the journey...’
80. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO U.K. DOMINIONS OFFICE: 6 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 86 (paraphrase) CANBERRA, 6 May 1939 SECRET My telegram No. 84 of the 5th May. [1] The draft of Gullett’s [2] speech was not completed when I saw the Prime Minister [3] last night. On Monday he will go through it with me. It is proposed to say:- (a)...’
81. U.K. DOMINIONS OFFICE TO SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA: 8 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 105 (paraphrase) LONDON, 8 May 1939, 5 p.m. SECRET Reference your telegram No. 84 of 5th May [1] and No. 86 of 6th May. [2] Speeches on lines described would appear to meet the present situation admirably. As regards (a) in your telegram No. 84 we attach importance to...’
82. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON (IN AMERICA), TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 8 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 20 WASHINGTON, 8 May 1939 PERSONAL MOST SECRET Have had long interviews with the President and all his principal advisers on foreign questions. [1] In these conversations, I have specifically raised the question of reactions and attitude of the United States Administration and public towards any aggressive move by...’
83. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO U.K. DOMINIONS OFFICE: 10 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 93 (paraphrase) CANBERRA, 10 May 1939 SECRET Your telegram No. 105 of the 8th May. [1] I spoke accordingly to the Prime Minister [2] and in the debate neither point was mentioned. _ 1 Document 81. 2 R. G. Menzies. _ [PRO: DO 114/98] ’
84. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO U.K. DOMINIONS OFFICE: 10 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 94 (paraphrase) CANBERRA, 10 May 1939 SECRET My telegram No. 80 of the 3rd May. [1] Yesterday the Prime Minister [2] told me that since my talk with him of the 2nd May he had received from the Department of External Affairs a memorandum [3] which had altered his...’
85. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 10 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 40 LONDON, 10 May 1939, 8.18 p.m. PERSONAL I have just been reading with great pleasure accounts of speeches on the international situation which you and the Minister for External Affairs made in the Commonwealth Parliament. [1] Many thanks. The knowledge of Australia’s solidarity with us is a great...’
86. MR J.S. DUNCAN, ACTING HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 12 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 170 (extracts) LONDON, 12 May 1939 SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER I talked with Inskip [1] last night as to the international situation. He is as you know a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee. [2] [matter omitted] RUSSIA. Negotiations with Russia are proving difficult. [3] I emphasised to him...’
87. LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR A.T. STIRLING,: 16 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 29, 16 May 1939 External Affairs Officer in London Reference your 107. [1] As difficulty has arisen in connection with delivery mail matter addressed Consul General Czechoslovakia but claimed by Consul General Germany would be glad urgent advice what course being pursued by United Kingdom authorities. [2] HODGSON _1...’
88. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 16 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 176 LONDON, 16 May 1939 SECRET Your telegram No. 29. [1] Understand that United Kingdom Government has been considering the question of de facto recognition of the new status of Bohemia and Moravia by the withdrawal of the British Legation at Prague, and the appointment of a Consul General...’
89. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 18 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 179 LONDON, 18 May 1939 MOST SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER Reply to the U.S.S.R. communication of 14th May [1] now being considered by Cabinet. There is general agreement as to the desirability of arrangement with the U.S.S.R. to ensure their support if trouble arises over Poland or Roumania. Division...’
90. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 19 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 32 19 May 1939, Your 179. [1] Russian negotiations. In our view it is scarcely possible to exaggerate the importance to Australia and New Zealand of Japan remaining outside a military alliance with Germany and Italy. As distinct from the risk of her engaging immediately in major operations, we...’
91. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 20 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 186 LONDON, 20 May 1939 SECRET AND PERSONAL FOR PRIME MINISTER Reference our telephone conversation-following confirmation of points. I suggested:- (1) The probability that any arrangement with the U.S.S.R. will have the same effect in Germany because the Nazis will use any arrangement with public to suit their own...’
92. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 188 LONDON, 20 May 1939 SECRET My telegram No. 176. [1] Czechoslovakia. The British Charge d’Affaires at Prague [2] has been instructed to make arrangements to close the Legation and leave Prague on or before 25th May. The question of future representation at Prague still not finalised. The United...’
93. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 22 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 35 22 May 1939, PERSONAL FOR BRUCE MOST SECRET Please advise His Majesty’s Government in the United Kingdom that the Australian Government has now further considered questions which arise in relation to a British Agreement with U.S.S.R. [1] while we attach great importance to preserving friendship with Japan and...’
94. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 22 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 193 LONDON, 22 May 1939 SECRET Dominions Office advise that the position as regards the inclusion of Bohemia and Moravia in customs area with Reich still remains as German Consul-General at Sydney [1] stated, viz.: that Czechoslovakia customs laws and frontier with Germany continue in force until otherwise decided....’
95. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL, AND TO SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 25 May 1939; ‘Cablegram 57 25 May 1939, Reference Timor Oil Concessions and representations made by Commonwealth Government July 1938. [1] We understand Dodson [2] was assured of obtaining concession from Portuguese Government on behalf of the two companies he is representing, namely Oil Search and Oil Concessions. Following conference with Commonwealth Government,...’
96. SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 31 May 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LISBON, 31 May 1939, 11.59 a.m. Your telegram of 25th May. [1] Minister for Colonies [2] informed the Commercial Secretary of this Embassy [3] on 26th May that he intended to arrive at a decision regarding the Timor Oil concessions before leaving with the President of the Republic...’
97. SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 31 May 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LISBON, 31 May 1939, 5.03 p.m. Your telegram of 6th April [1], Australia Timor Air Service. Portuguese Government are in principle agreeable subject to satisfactory negotiations on basis of reciprocity. Governor of Timor [2] is being instructed to afford facilities to a responsible officer of the Australian Civil...’
98. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL: 1 June 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 1 June 1939, Your telegram of 31st May. [1] The area of old Staughton concessions approximately 2,500 acres only, far too small for exploitation and development of an oil field, and which proved in past one of main obstacles to formation of company with sufficient capital to operate....’
99. SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 7 June 1939; ‘Memorandum CANBERRA, 7 June 1939 SECRET In a conversation I had with the Japanese Consul-General this morning, Mr Akiyama asked me the following questions:- 1. Following upon recent statements by the Prime Minister and my External Affairs speech in the House [1], was the Commonwealth Government prepared to make to...’
100. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO MR J.D.L. HOOD, DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 23 May 1939; ‘Letter P & C 9 LONDON, 23 May 1939 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL In your P. & C. No. 3 of 22nd March [2], you mentioned the letter of 17th February addressed to the late Mr Lyons by the former Japanese Consul-General in Sydney, Mr Wakamatsu. [3] Ronald [4], of the...’
101. MR J.D.L. HOOD, DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON: 9 June 1939; ‘Letter (extract) CANBERRA, 9 June 1939 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL I had this week your P. & C. of 23rd May conveying the views of the Far Eastern Department on the Wakamatsu letter. [1] I passed on the contents to Hodgson [2] and his reaction, like mine on reading the letter,...’
102. SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 14 June 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LISBON, 14 June 1939, 8.10 p.m. My telegram of 31st May. [1] From the conversation I have had with the Minister for Colonies [2] I consider it important that we should proceed with the exchange of notes with the Portuguese Government for the establishment of the air service...’
103. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, AND MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 15 June 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 15 June 1939, SECRET AND PERSONAL A perusal of the cables and other communications received from the Dominions Office in relation to the international situation has left me with a definite impression that France has not been as helpful as she might have been in clearing up matters...’
104. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 15 June 1939; ‘Cablegram 233 LONDON, 15 June 1939 My telegram No. 188. [1] Czechoslovakia. United Kingdom Government is instructing British Ambassador at Berlin [2] to inform German Government that it is proposed to appoint a Consul-General at Prague. The Ambassador instructed that he should not himself refer to the question whether the...’
105. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT U.K. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, TO MR J.D.L. HOOD, DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 16 June 1939; ‘Letter (extract) WASHINGTON, 16 June 1939 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL I was delighted to receive in last mail yesterday your letter of the 24th May [1] and also a news letter which is extremely comprehensive. I have also now read the debate in the House of Representatives on May 9th [2]...’
106. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 18 June 1939; ‘Cablegram 238 LONDON, 18 June 1939 FOLLOWING FOR PRIME MINISTER PERSONAL SECRET [Anglo-Japanese tension in North China reached a peak on 14 June 1939 when Japan instituted a blockade of the British and French concessions at Tientsin and proceeded to obstruct British business and inflict indignities upon British residents. The...’
107. LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON: 22 June 1939; ‘Cablegram 40 22 June 1939, 4.20 p.m. Reference de facto recognition of German occupation Czechoslovakia. Question of recognition by Commonwealth Government is under consideration. Glad if you would make enquiries and advise what steps if any being taken by British Government as to withdrawal recognition Czech Consuls and as to...’
108. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 22 June 1939; ‘Cablegram 254 LONDON, 22 June 1939 Your telegram No. 40. [1] Foreign Office advise question future position of Czech Ministers and Consuls in the United Kingdom is at present under consideration and it is felt no definite opinion can yet be expressed as to the procedure for us. Should it...’
109. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO MR J.E. STEPHENSON, ASSISTANT SECRETARY, U.K. DOMINIONS OFFICE: 23 June 1939; ‘Letter (copy) CANBERRA, 23 June 1939 SECRET [On 6 June 1939, Stephenson wrote to Whiskard on the question of Menzies’s view that if a Minister were accredited to Japan one should also be accredited to China (Document 77). He said that the Foreign Office ‘do not feel at all happy...’
110. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 23 June 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 23 June 1939, 9.20 p.m. SECRET AND PERSONAL Following from Prime Minister for Prime Minister. Begins-I greatly appreciated your helpful message of June 15th on the subject of the Franco-Italian relations. [1] It is most useful to know from time to time how the position strikes you....’
111. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER: 24 June 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 24 June 1939, SECRET PERSONAL My Government is at present making a review of Commonwealth’s defence policy and progress of expanded programme adopted last November by Government at that date. Certain proposals for further increase submitted by Government Adviser(s) have raised important issues as to basis of Australian...’
112. RECORD OF MEETING HELD IN U.K. PRIME MINISTER'S ROOM AT HOUSE OF COMMONS: 28 June 1939; ‘LONDON, 28 June 1939 SECRET THE SITUATION IN THE FAR EAST The Committee of Imperial Defence at its 362nd Meeting held on 26th June, 1939, had under consideration a Memorandum by the Deputy Chief of Naval Staff [1] on the subject of the communication to the Dominions of the policy...’
113. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 29 June 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 29 June 1939 SECRET AND PERSONAL Your Secret and Personal telegram of 24th June. [1] Since you make no mention of my Personal and Most Secret telegram to your predecessor dated 20th March, 1939 [2], it is possible that you have not seen it. The relevant passages...’
114. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 29 June 1939; ‘Cablegram 262 LONDON, 29 June 1939 PERSONAL FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Prime Minister [1] sent for me last night to ascertain the reactions of Australia to the present situation at Tientsin. After making clear to him that anything I said would be mainly surmise on my part we had...’
115. SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR E.T. LAMBERT, ACTING U.K. CONSUL-GENERAL IN BATAVIA: 4 July 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 4 July 1939, For your personal information. Commonwealth Government recently decided to submit proposal to Portuguese Government for establishment weekly air service Darwin Dilli and to request permission for Commonwealth Government to communicate direct with Governor at Dilli [1] regarding visit of Commonwealth representative for purposes of consultation...’
116. SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL: 4 July 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 4 July 1939, Darwin-Dilli air service. Your telegram 14th June. [1] Note is now being drafted and text should reach you before end of this month. [2] Meanwhile Minister for Civil Aviation [3] proposes to visit Dilli personally this month to make local inspection. MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS...’
117. SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS OF COUNCIL OF DEFENCE MEETING: 5 July 1939; ‘Extracts 5 July 1939, 10 a.m. [After introductory remarks by the Chairman (the Prime Minister, R.G. Menzies), the Minister for External Affairs, Sir Henry Gullett, discussed Agendum 6/1939, giving a review of the international situation based on reports received from London.] THE MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS again expressed the view...’
118. RECORD OF MEETING HELD AT DOMINIONS OFFICE: 11 July 1939; ‘LONDON, 11 July 1939 SECRET THE SITUATION IN THE FAR EAST A meeting was held in the Room of the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs at 10.30 a.m. on Tuesday, the 11th July, at which the following were present- The Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs. [1] The Minister...’
119. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 13 July 1939; ‘Cablegram 278 LONDON, 13 July 1939 MOST SECRET My telegram No. 254. [1] Foreign Office advise today 13th July that decision has been reached to defer the question until the Autumn unless fresh circumstances arise in the meantime which will necessitate a decision being made. The United Kingdom Government will...’
120. MR N.C. TRITTON, PRIVATE SECRETARY TO PRIME MINISTER, TO SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 14 July 1939; ‘Letter PERTH, 14 July 1939 This will confirm our ‘phone conversation this morning when I gave you the exist of a ‘phone conversation between the Prime Minister [1] and Mr Bruce [2] yesterday (the 13th July) at 3 p.m. Perth time. European Situation. There have been further talks with Mussolini...’
121. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL: 18 July 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 18 July 1939, Your telegram of 31st May [1], Timor concessions. Commonwealth Government appreciates assistance you have rendered. It appears the Australian company has received certain advice that it will receive a concession but there is doubt as to what the present position actually is. Would be glad...’
122. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO U.K. DOMINIONS OFFICE: 18 July 1939; ‘Cablegram 135 (paraphrase) CANBERRA, 18 July 1939 SECRET My telegram No. 94 of 10th May. [1] Reports appearing in the press state that owing to disturbed relations between the United Kingdom and Japan Australian Government do not propose to proceed for the present with the establishment of a Legation at...’
123. LT COL E.E. LONGFIELD LLOYD, AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT COMMISSIONER IN JAPAN, TO LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 30 May 1939; ‘Memorandum 395 TOKYO, 30 May 1939 CONFIDENTIAL AUSTRALIAN FOREIGN POLICY Continuing my Note of 25th-29th May [2], shortly after the closure of which I heard a Japanese Foreign Office reaction to the Commonwealth foreign policy statement of the Right Honourable the Prime Minister and the Honourable the Minister for External...’
124. MR MASATOSHI AKIYAMA, JAPANESE CONSUL-GENERAL IN SYDNEY, TO SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 27 July 1939; ‘Letter SYDNEY, 27 July 1939 With reference to the conversation that I had with you last Saturday morning (July 22nd), I have the honour, under instructions of the Japanese Government, to transmit to you, for the information of the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia, the following official report by...’
125. REPORT OF INTER-DEPARTMENTAL COMMITTEE ON JAPANESE ENCROACHMENT IN AUSTRALIAN WATERS: 28 July 1939; ‘Extracts 28 July 1939 1. Following upon reports from various sources on the intensification of efforts by the Japanese to develop their fishing industry in waters adjacent to Australia, as well as requests from the Premier of Western Australia [1] for an indication of the policy of the Commonwealth Government...’
126. MR O. SCOTT, U.K. CHARGE D'AFFAIRES IN PORTUGAL, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 19 July 1939; ‘Savingram unnumbered LISBON, [19 July 1939 [1]] Received 1 August 1939 Your telegram of 18th July. [2] I interviewed Secretary-General [3] at Ministry for Foreign Affairs today and explained that the Minister for the Colonies [4] before leaving for Africa with the President of the Republic [5] had assured His...’
127. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT U.K. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, TO LT COL. W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 2 August 1939; ‘Letter (extract) OTTAWA, 2 August 1939 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL I have spent the afternoon at the Department of External Affairs. Skelton [1] is away on leave and I have seen Dr Beaudry, his second-in-command, as you will realise a French Canadian, and also Loring Christie and Norman Robertson, his principal...’
128. CABINET SUBMISSION BY MR J.V. FAIRBAIRN, MINISTER FOR CIVIL AVIATION: 3 August 1939; ‘Agenda 121 3 August 1939, BRITISH TRANS-PACIFIC AIR SERVICES On 22nd June Cabinet in dealing with Agenda No. 77 [1] on this subject endorsed generally the recommendations of the Wellington Conference for the establishment of a British service across the Pacific and Cabinet authorised certain expenditure on survey work flights...’
129. SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR MASATOSHI AKIYAMA, JAPANESE CONSUL-GENERAL IN SYDNEY: 3 August 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 3 August 1939 I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your letter of 27th July last conveying, under instructions from the Japanese Government, an official report of the Japanese authorities on the question of the inspection and searching of British nationals at Tientsin. [1] I note that...’
130. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL: 10 August 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 10 August 1939, Darwin Dilli Air Service. My telegram 4th July. [1] Following is text of draft note to be addressed to Portuguese Government. Begins. At the instance of His Majesty’s Government in the Commonwealth of Australia, I have the honour to propose that an agreement be concluded...’
131. MR O. SCOTT, U.K. CHARGE D'AFFAIRES IN PORTUGAL, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 28 July 1939; ‘Letter LISBON, 28 July 1939 CONFIDENTIAL You will, I expect, have received my telegram of July 19th regarding Oil Search’s application for the concession in Timor. [1] It must be very hard both for Your Excellency’s Government and for the company to understand the cause for all the delay in...’
132. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 16 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 336 LONDON, 16 August 1939 SECRET FOR THE PRIME MINISTER MOST PERSONAL [From the end of July 1939, Bruce and A.T. Stirling, External Affairs Officer in London, sent to Australia reports suggesting increased German activity in Danzig and on the Polish frontier, including considerable movements of German troops. They...’
133. LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF 133 EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON: 18 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 50 18 August 1939, PERSONAL FOR STIRLING While realising that the High Commissioner [1] will be in direct touch with the Secretary of State for Dominions [2] if necessity arises would be glad if in present complex situation you could keep us advised briefly of views obtaining in highest...’
134. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER: 18 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 81 [1] 18 August 1939, SECRET My Government has noted with deep interest the report of peace moves for the settlement of various European questions and knows that the British Government will use every endeavour to take advantage of such moves. In particular we consider that efforts should be...’
135. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR O. SCOTT, U.K. CHARGE D'AFFAIRES IN PORTUGAL: 18 August 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 18 August 1939 CONFIDENTIAL In acknowledging your letter of the 28th July [1] I desire to express my keen appreciation of the efforts made by His Majesty’s Missions in Portugal in connection with the application of Oil Search Ltd for oil concessions in Portuguese Timor. Your letter certainly...’
136. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT U.K. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, TO LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 19 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 33 WASHINGTON, 19 August 1939 PERSONAL FOR HODGSON Your telegram No. 23. [1] Generally prevailing view and attitude is quite different to that of year ago when it was friendly but inclined to be critical of our policy. Now there is very general belief in our steadily increasing strength...’
137. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER, AND TO SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 21 August 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered/82 21 August 1939, (2) (No. 82. Following telegram has been sent to the Prime Minister of New Zealand-) PACIFIC AIR SERVICE My telegram No. 75 [1]: Following is attitude of Commonwealth Government regarding the two points raised in paragraph 7 of Secretary of State’s telegram No. 58 (No....’
138. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO U.K. DOMINIONS OFFICE: 21 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 152 (paraphrase) CANBERRA, 21 August 1939 SECRET My telegram No. 137 of the 18th July. [1] Today the Prime Minister [2] told me that he hopes the Cabinet will make a decision this week with regard to the person whom they wish should be appointed to Washington. He would...’
139. LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON: 22 August 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 22 August 1939 [9.53 a.m.], Press reports here that German official report announced to effect that Germany has agreed to sign non-aggression pact with Russia and that Ribbentrop [2] is flying to Moscow immediately. Ascertain position immediately and reply urgently shortest possible time. HODGSON _ 1 For evidence...’
140. LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON: 22 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 51 22 August 1939, CONFIDENTIAL Personal for Stirling. Minister [1] desires me to inform you that cabinet [2] has been very embarrassed over failure to receive any reply to my most urgent message this morning. Press and wireless had early report of German announcement [3] which was being featured...’
141. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 22 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 344 LONDON, 22 August 1939 CONFIDENTIAL PERSONAL FOR HODGSON It has not been possible to send you any authoritative view. The High Commissioner [1] has been with Ministers continuously and will shortly be advising you. In reply to your telegram No. 51 [2] and in case the position was...’
142. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 23 August 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram C9 LONDON, 23 August 1939, 12.02 a.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET The international Situation has suddenly become exceedingly acute. Cabinet have this afternoon decided to institute certain measures provided for in the precautionary stage of the War Book (in relation to Germany only), though without the formal institution of the...’
143. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 23 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 346 LONDON, 23 August 1939, 1.20 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER News of German-Russian Agreement was a complete surprise in all quarters and impossible yet to appreciate full significance and effect. Cabinet sat all afternoon [1] and cabled press statement was approved. On advice of Ambassador at...’
144. STATEMENT BY MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 23 August 1939; ‘CANBERRA, 23 August 1939, 12 noon Although the position in Europe is still obscure, and it is both unwise and unnecessary to rush to any exaggerated conclusions about the suggested pact between Germany and Russia, it is certain that the state of tension has never been greater. The simple fact...’
145. CABINET MINUTE: 23 August 1939; ‘Minute 146 23 August 1939, ENCROACHMENT BY JAPANESE IN AUSTRALIAN WATERS The recommendations [1] of the Inter-Departmental Committee on Japanese encroachment in Australian Waters were approved by Cabinet- (i) That steps be taken to negotiate for an agreement with Japan to secure protection of the Australian pearling industry and some...’
146. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 23 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 349 LONDON, 23 August 1939, 8.44 p.m. SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER Developments of the last twenty-four hours are practically all recorded in Dominions Office cable [1] and press. Molotov [2] met the Ambassadors’ representations as to the Soviet-German agreement extremely unsatisfactorily accusing the British and French of lack of...’
147. CABINET MINUTE: 24 August 1939; ‘Minute 10 CANBERRA, 24 August 1939 INTERNATIONAL SITUATION It was agreed that Ministers should inform Heads of Departments privately that in accordance with the War Book [1] they should make arrangements on the basis that a state of international tension existed. _ 1 The War Book, which was prepared in...’
148. CABINET MINUTE: 24 August 1939; ‘Minute 58 CANBERRA, 24 August 1939 LEGATIONS, WASHINGTON AND JAPAN This matter was discussed by Cabinet and it was agreed that an appointment should be made as soon as possible to Washington, such an appointment to be left to the Prime Minister [1] alone, who invited suggestions from Ministers individually....’
149. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 25 August 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 25 August 1939, Reference your suggestion that I again cable Chamberlain [1], I feel that our position made clear by my cable to him on August 18th. [2] Moreover, his letter to Hitler seems to express position adequately. [3] You may inform United Kingdom Government, however, that while...’
150. STATEMENT BY MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 25 August 1939; ‘Extract CANBERRA, 25 August 1939, evening It may very well be that Germany still has some grievances which would be all the better for ventilation and unprejudiced discussion. But if, instead of entering into discussion, instead of going into friendly conference, instead of recognising that there are, after all, two...’
151. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, 151 TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 25 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 354 LONDON, 25 August 1939, 8.47 p.m. SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER Most important development today Hitler [1] sent for Henderson. [2] Object or result of interview not yet known. The Ambassador at Rome [3] in close touch with Ciano [4] and still exploring method for useful intervention by Mussolini...’
152. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 25 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 84 LONDON, 25 August 1939, 10 p.m. SECRET I am much obliged for your helpful telegram of 18th August No. 81 [1] and am most grateful for your expression of appreciation and support. You may be sure that the considerations mentioned in your telegram are fully present to our...’
153. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 26 August 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram B287 LONDON, 26 August 1939, 3.49 a.m. Received 26 August 1939 MOST SECRET Herr Hitler [1] today saw His Majesty’s Ambassador at Berlin. [2] He said that he wished to make a move towards England as decisive as his recent Russian move. But the incidents in Poland had...’
154. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 26 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 358 LONDON, 26 August 1939, 10.15 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET As no time to consult you, I have advised the United Kingdom Government that I am confident that your view would be that Hitler’s proposals [1] must be treated with the utmost seriousness and that reply must...’
155. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 27 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 359 LONDON, 27 August 1939, 12.30 a.m. MOST SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER My immediately preceding telegram. [1] On arrival Henderson [2] in conference with the Prime Minister [3] and Halifax [4] over three hours. Subsequently Cabinet sat till nine p.m. and then adjourned till tomorrow Sunday morning. Proposed that...’
156. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER: 27 August 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 27 August 1939, I have carefully considered Hitler’s proposals [1] and make the following comments for your consideration:- Having regard to past experience proposals should be approached with great suspicion. In particular we should do nothing which would lead Poland to think that we were deserting her as...’
157. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 27 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 360 [1] LONDON, 27 August 1939 FOR THE PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Cabinet did not meet till 3.30 and sat till 6 and adjourned till tomorrow morning. Henderson’s [2] return postponed till tomorrow afternoon. This decision deliberately arrived at, and for your information and MOST CONFIDENTIAL this due to...’
158. CABINET MINUTE: 28 August 1939; ‘Minute 10 MELBOURNE, 28 August 1939, 2.30 p.m. INTERNATIONAL SITUATION The international position was discussed at some length, and the Minister for External Affairs [1] read cablegrams which had been received from the High Commissioner in London [2], and the replies sent by the Prime Minister. [3] With respect to...’
159. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 28 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 86 LONDON, 28 August 1939, 6.30 p.m. IMMEDIATE In view of the critical situation vis a vis Germany, and for reason which will fully be appreciated, including the protection of trade, the Admiralty have requested that ships of the Royal Australian Navy may be held in immediate readiness and,...’
160. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 28 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 362 LONDON, 28 August 1939, 6.55 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER Cabinet has now approved reply to Hitler [1] and Henderson [2] leaving immediately for Berlin. As anticipated in my previous cable [3] Hitler’s reply to Daladier [4] is ignored. Understand it was not contemplated in...’
161. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 28 August 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram B293 LONDON, 28 August 1939, 9.08 p.m. MOST SECRET It is especially desired that extreme secrecy should be observed with regard to this telegram. Following is the reply to Herr Hitler’s communication (my most secret telegram B. 287 [1]) which is being taken by Sir Nevile Henderson [2]...’
162. CABINET MINUTE: 29 August 1939; ‘Minute 10 MELBOURNE, 29 August 1939 INTERNAT10NAL POSITION The Prime Minister [1] read the text of the British Government’s reply to the German Chancellor, as far as it was decoded at 12.20 p.m. Upon resumption after lunch, the full text was made available to members of Cabinet. [2] It was...’
163. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 29 August 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram B295 LONDON, 29 August 1939, 12.53 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET My telegram 293 Circular B. 28th August. [1] Following for Prime Minister:- 1. His Majesty’s Ambassador [2] delivered the British reply to Herr Hitler [3] last night. The latter uncompromisingly claimed the town of Danzig and the...’
164. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 29 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 363 LONDON, 29 August 1939 MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Have obtained the following amplification of Dominions Office summary of Henderson’s conversation with Hitler. [1] No part of the following must be referred to in any communication to the United Kingdom Government. After Hitler had read Intelligence...’
165. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT: 29 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 364 LONDON, 29 August 1939, 5.28 p.m. SECRET ITALY Count Ciano [1] spoke last night to the British Ambassador at Rome [2] with great anxiety about press statements in whole London evening press to the effect that in the event of war Italy might remain neutral and even desert...’
166. CABINET MINUTE: 30 August 1939; ‘Minute 10 MELBOURNE, 30 August 1939, 11 a.m. INTERNATIONAL SITUATION The Minister for External Affairs [1] read the text of cables which had been received since the Cabinet adjourned the previous day. Following on the information contained in the cable from the External Affairs Officer in London [2], the matter...’
167. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 30 August 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram B298 LONDON, 30 August 1939, 2.25 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET My telegram Circular B.295 of August 29th. [1] Following for Prime Minister. 1. Summary of Hitler’s written reply is as follows [2]:- 2. In reply to the two British proposals, namely initiation of German Polish direct discussions...’
168. CABINET MINUTE: 30 August 1939; ‘Minute 10 MELBOURNE, 30 August 1939, afternoon: before 4 P.M. INTERNATIONAL SITUATION A summary of the German Chancellor’s reply to the Prime Minister of Great Britain [1] was read to Cabinet by the Minister for External Affairs. [2] _ 1 Document 167. 2 Sir Henry Gullett. _ [AA: A2697, VOL....’
169. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 30 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 91 30 August 1939, IMMEDIATE SECRET In the present international situation the Commonwealth Governmerit desire to place the ships of the R.A.N. and their personnel at the disposal of the United Kingdom Government, but find it necessary to stipulate that no ships (other than H.M.A.S. ‘Perth’ [1] should be...’
170. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R. G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 30 August 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram B300 LONDON, 30 August 1939, 1.37 p.m. IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET My immediately preceding telegram Circular B.299. [1] Following for Prime Minister. It is specially desired that extreme secrecy should be observed with regard to this telegram. Following is the full text of Herr Hitler’s [2] reply (begins). British...’
171. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 30 August 1939; ‘Cablegram 369 LONDON, 30 August 1939 MOST IMMEDIATE FOR THE PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Dominions Office cables [1] will have advised you of the terms of the German communication to the United Kingdom reply. Latter couched deliberately fairly stiffly but steps have been taken to prevent its having too repellent...’
172. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 31 August 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram B303 LONDON, 31 August 1939, 12.38 a.m. IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET My Circular B.300 of today. [1] It is specially desired that extreme secrecy should be observed with regard to this telegram. Following is text of reply to Herr Hitler’s note of 29th August [2] which His Majesty’s Ambassador...’
173. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 31 August 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 31 August 1939, 1 p.m. PERSONAL I keenly appreciated your telegram of 27th August [1] and thank you warmly for it. It was at once communicated to my colleagues and we gave its contents most careful attention in the preparation of the reply to Hitler which went...’
174. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER: 1 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 1 September 1939 [1], PERSONAL the discussions and have been greatly pleased with your replies to Hitler. [3] I could best sum up the attitude of the great majority of Australians by saying that we would not consider Danzig or the Corridor intrinsically worth a war but that...’
175. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 1 September 1939; ‘Cablegram [373 [1] LONDON, 1 September 1939, 1.45 a.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Developments today [2] very rapid, and extremely difficult to estimate their significance and effects. During the day information conveyed to you in Dominions Office cables came in from Warsaw as to the difficult attitude of Poland...’
176. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 1 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 1 September 1939, Your cablegram regarding German proposals. [1] We all agree that these are surprisingly reasonable and there is earnest hope that provided adequate guarantees are forthcoming the Poles will not adopt impossible attitude. At the same time proper to point out to you that Ministers here...’
177. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 1 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 1 September 1939, 8.20 p.m. IMMEDIATE CLEAR THE LINE Although overseas broadcast news most alarming [2] no advice yet received from British Government. Glad receive your most urgent advice. MENZIES _ 1 The copy in the Bruce papers gives this time of receipt (on file AA: M100, September...’
178. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 1 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 374 LONDON, 1 September 1939, 11.24 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE Various rumours are current as to direct action by Herr Hitler [1] including suggestions bombing of Warsaw. No confirmation these has yet been received. STIRLING _ 1 Adolf Hitler, German Chancellor. _ [AA: A981, GERMANY 67, ii] ’
179. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 1 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 1 September 1939,12.29 p.m. CLEAR THE LINE MOST IMMEDIATE For immediate transmission to Prime Minister. Similar broadcasts taking place here, newspapers appearing with sensational reports. I am in Downing Street but up to this moment no confirmation. BRUCE _ _ [AA: A1608, A41/1/1, iv] ’
180. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 1 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 1 September 1939, 1.24 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE CLEAR THE LINE For immediate transmission to Prime Minister. No official information through diplomatic source received, but German official wireless at noon reported that troops had crossed all Polish frontiers in order to resist attacks. Air and fleet action were...’
181. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 1 September 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram C28 LONDON, 1 September 1939, 2.23 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET. DEFENCE. Precautionary stage adopted against Germany and Italy. [1] _ 1 A warning telegram was also sent through the U.K. Admiralty. See message from Defence Department to Prime Minister’s Department, 2 September 1939 (on file AA: A1608, A41/1/1,...’
182. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 1 September 1939; ‘Cablegram [377 [1] LONDON, n.d. [1 September 1939], 2.20 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Cabinet just risen. Decision immediate ultimatum to Germany without time limit as soon as action concerted with French with whom Secretary for Foreign Affairs [2] now getting in touch. Ciano [3] has given assurances Italy...’
183. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 2 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 2 September 1939 [1] PERSONAL I am very grateful for your helpful comment. [2] Unfortunately the latest action of the German Government has altered the whole of the situation and there seems only one course open to us. I deeply appreciate your confidence. Kindest regards. NEVILLE CHAMBERLAIN...’
184. BROADCAST MESSAGE BY MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 2 September 1939; ‘2 September 1939, shortly after 3 a.m. Fellow Australians, this is proving a most disturbing and anxious night. You have read in the extraordinary editions of the newspapers, and heard on the wireless, news of an attack by Germany on Poland. At present, I have no official confirmation of these...’
185. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 2 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 2 September 1939, CLEAR THE LINE Have not received any important information since this morning. Can appreciate difficulties but very grateful if you would endeavour expedite as much as possible. R.G. MENZIES _ _ [AA: CP290/6, ITEM 271] ’
186. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 2 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 387 LONDON, 2 September 1939, 3.29 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET As indicated in my telegram to the Prime Minister [1], the statement that the Ambassador [2] would ask for his passport was departed from and the procedure indicated in Dominions Office cable has been followed. [3] Owing...’
187. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 2 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 390 LONDON, 2 September 1939, 7.41 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Your telegram of 2nd September. [1] Fully appreciate your feelings. Position, however, from midnight yesterday to noon today was no new development owing to the whole period being occupied with conversation in close contact with the French...’
188. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 3 September 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram B322 LONDON, 3 September 1939, 2.10 a.m. CLEAR THE LINE MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET Please treat this telegram with extreme secrecy. With reference to my telegram Circular C. No. 48 yesterday [1] containing Prime Minister’s [2] statement at 7.45 p.m. yesterday. Cabinet meeting after midnight have decided that...’
189. BROADCAST MESSAGE BY MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 3 September 1939; ‘3 September 1939, 9.15 p.m. It is my melancholy duty to inform you officially that, in consequence of a persistence by Germany in her invasion of Poland, Great Britain has declared war upon her and that, as a result, Australia is also at war. [1] No harder task can fall...’
190. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 3 September 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram C349 LONDON, 3 September 1939, 12.18 p.m. Defence. War has broken out with Germany. _ _ [AA: A1608, A41/1/1, iv] ’
191. SIR THOMAS INSKIP, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 3 September 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram B328 LONDON, 3 September 1939, 8 p.m. [1] CONFIDENTIAL His Majesty’s Government in the United Kingdom have had under consideration their position in relation to the Optional Clause of the Statute of the Permanent Court of International justice. In the present circumstances it would not appear practicable to...’
192. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER: 4 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 4 September 1939, Your broadcast message [l] moved Australia deeply. We ourselves have proclaimed a state of war and I have broadcast on behalf of the Commonwealth Government that we stand with Great Britain. We firmly believe we have right on our side and in that strength victory...’
193. MR W.L. MACKENZIE KING, CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 3 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 7 OTTAWA, 3 September 1939, 11.10 p.m. My telegram No. 2 of 22nd January, 1935. [1] 1. His Majesty’s Government in Canada anticipating difficult problems that are likely to face members of Commonwealth as a result of conflict that has now begun, and being desirous of strengthening means of...’
194. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 4 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 405 LONDON, 4 September 1939, 6.48 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET War Cabinet while too big and will doubtless be reduced later by the elimination of those not pulling weight is quite the best selection from the material available and in my view distinctly good. It...’
195. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 5 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 5 September 1939, STRICTLY PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF ONLY MOST SECRET Thanks your telegram 4th September, 405. [1] As we see the position at present our task for some time will be the completing of training of forces for Australian defence. Until position of Japan has been cleared up...’
196. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 5 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 5 September 1939, IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET Government of Canada, anticipating that difficult problems will face members of the British Commonwealth, has suggested that they appoint High Commissioner in Australia and that we reciprocate. [1] On the grounds of maintenance of Empire unity etc. we here are strongly in...’
197. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 5 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 412 LONDON, 5 September 1939, 1O.25 p.m. For Prime Minister. Most Secret. Your telegram of September 5th. [1] Have seen United Kingdom Government. They not only have no objection but would welcome reciprocal appointment High Commissioner. BRUCE _ 1 Document 196. _ [AA:A981, AUSTRALIA 151, i] ’
198. CABINET MINUTE: 5 September 1939; ‘Minute 181 CANBERRA, 5 September 1939 EXCHANGE OF HIGH COMMISSIONERS A cablegram from the Prime Minister of Canada [1] was read by Mr Menzies [2], in which an immediate exchange of High Commissioners between Ottawa and Canberra was suggested. It was resolved that the Government of Canada be informed that...’
199. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 5 September 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 5 September 1939 MOST IMMEDIATE I understand from my Government that they have received a telegram from the New Zealand Government stating that the existence of a state of war with Germany has been proclaimed in New Zealand and asking that we will take any steps which may...’
200. CABINET MINUTE: 5 September 1939; ‘Minute 10 CANBERRA, 5 September 1939 INTERNATIONAL POSITION It was agreed by Cabinet that the High Commissioner, London [1], should be asked to send to Canberra daily a communication setting out the position of the war as known in London, so that the Commonwealth Government will be in possession of...’
201. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 5 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 100 5 September 1939, MOST IMMEDIATE It would be appreciated if His Majesty’s Government in the United Kingdom would take any steps which may be necessary to indicate to the German Government that Australia, in association with Great Britain, is at war with Germany. _ _ [AA:A1608, M41/1/1] ’
202. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 5 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 5 September 1939, 7.20 p.m. Personal. I deeply appreciate your telegram 4th September. [1] It is the greatest encouragement to us in these difficult hours to know that the Commonwealth Government are with us. We share your confidence that the cause of justice and good faith for...’
203. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR W.L. MACKENZIE KING, CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER: 6 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 6 September 1939, Your telegram No. 7, 3rd September [1] His Majesty’s Government in the Commonwealth of Australia is in entire agreement with view of His Majesty’s Government in Canada that an exchange of High Commissioners between Ottawa and Canberra would strengthen materially means of intercourse and co-operation...’
204. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO U.K. DOMINIONS OFFICE: 6 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 184 (paraphrase) CANBERRA, 6 September 1939 SECRET I understand that you have been informed by Bruce [1] of Mackenzie King’s proposal to appoint a Canadian High Commissioner in Australia. [2] Prime Minister [3] tells me that he warmly welcomes this proposal and that subject to any observations which His...’
205. MR W.L. MACKENZIE KING, CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 6 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered OTTAWA, 6 September 1939, 6 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE I am very glad to hear that the Commonwealth of Australia will be prepared to receive a High Commissioner for Canada and to appoint a High Commissioner in Ottawa. [1] I wholly share your view of the value to both...’
206. CABINET SUBMISSION BY SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 7 September 1939; ‘7 September 1939 THE OPTIONAL CLAUSE 1. A telegram dated 4th September, 1939 [1 has been received from the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs indicating the intention of the British Government to address to the Secretary- General of the League of Nations [2] a letter stating that it will...’
207. CABINET SUBMISSION BY SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 7 September 1939; ‘7 September 1939 GENERAL ACT FOR THE PACIFIC SETTLEMENT OF INTERNATIONAL DISPUTES 1. In view of the consideration being given by the Commonwealth Government to the question what action (if any) should be taken in relation to the Optional Clause of the Statute of the Permanent Court of International justice,...’
208. CABINET MINUTE: 7 September 1939; ‘Minute 10 CANBERRA, 7 September 1939 INTERNATIONAL SITUATION The Minister for External Affairs [1] read cables on the international position. The question was again raised by Mr Spender [2] as to the necessity of Cabinet’s indicating to the British Government the need for reopening negotiations with Japan. After discussion it...’
209. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 7 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 430 LONDON, 7 September 1939, 10.59 a.m. MOST SECRET Canadian and New Zealand Governments have asked United Kingdom Government that Chiefs of General Staff should prepare an appreciation of most valuable form of military assistance that they could respectively render. United Kingdom Government asked me whether Australia would desire...’
210. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT BRITISH EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 7 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 28, 7 September 1939, 11.30 p.m. Prime Minister would appreciate if Ambassador [1] would communicate earliest practicable moment following personal message from Prime Minister to the President. [2] Begins: Personal for himself We are greatly perturbed by the immediate result of your Neutrality Proclamation [3] since it cuts off...’
211. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 7 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 428 LONDON, 7 September 1939, 8.59 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE Personal for Prime Minister. Secret. Your telegram of yesterday’s date re daily information. [1] In my view there are two sources from which you should be receiving confidential information. (i) From United Kingdom Government, and (ii) From myself With regard...’
212. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 7 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 429 LONDON, 7 September 1939, 8.55 p.m. PERSONAL FOR PRIME MINISTER SECRET Allied strategy. As I was most anxious to send you some communication with regard to allied strategy, I saw on Monday [1] Chatfield [2] and Hankey [3] as two members of War Cabinet, apart from Prime Minister...’
213. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 8 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 107 8 September 1939, Your telegrams Circular B.328, confidential, 3rd September, Optional Clause [1], Circular B.51 of 11th February, 1939, General ACT. [2] Following are copies of telegrams sent to Secretary- General, League of Nations [3] on 7th September, 1939. First begins: ‘His Majesty’s Government in the Commonwealth of...’
214. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA: 8 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 191 (extracts) LONDON, 8 September 1939 MOST SECRET In accordance with suggestions from the Prime Ministers of Canada and New Zealand, defence authorities here have put forward suggestions as to possibilities of Naval, Army and Air Force co- operation which we should like to see those Dominions affording in...’
215. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 9 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 442 LONDON, 9 September 1939, 9.32 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET HIMSELF Question raised in my previous cable [1] considered by War Cabinet today. Matter to be further considered tomorrow. Present view is down lines of impression indicated in my previous cable. Statement being issued tonight...’
216. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 9 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 441 LONDON, 9 September 1939, 11.34 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET In my view, and this I have stressed to all members of the War Cabinet I have been able to see today, the most urgent question for consideration is attitude and method of stating our position in...’
217. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 10 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 446 LONDON, 10 September 1939, 3.48 p.m. Dominions Office have advised the High Commissioner [1] of the following items which it is thought may be of interest. ‘It has been learnt from an entirely reliable source that the Japanese Consul-General at Sydney [2] has communicated with his Government to...’
218. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 11 September 1939; ‘Letter (extract) CANBERRA, 11 September 1939 SECRET The object of this letter is to put before you in a rambling and personal way something of what I have been thinking in the last few days about the War and its future. It seems almost a certainty-in fact it will no...’
219. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 11 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 191 CANBERRA, 11 September 1939 IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET Your telegram No. 191 of the 8th September. [1] following message from the Prime Minister of the Commonwealth. [2] Begins. Your suggestions will be considered by the Cabinet tomorrow and full reply sent to you as soon as possible. As your...’
220. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 11 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 449 LONDON, 11 September 1939, 7.59 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET War Cabinet further discussed today subject of my telegram No. 441 [1] and I understand at meeting tonight is considering desirability of asking Dominions for expression of their views. News from Poland is considered slightly more satisfactory...’
221. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 12 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 452 (extract) LONDON, 12 September 1939, 7.15 p.m. CLEAR THE LINE MOST IMMEDIATE For Prime Minister. Most secret. Reply going tonight [1] to your queries re Japan. [2] Have made considerable progress on points raised in my telegram No. 441 of 9th September [3] and I am meeting a...’
222. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA: 12 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 200 LONDON, 12 September 1939, 10.08 p.m. MOST SECRET Your telegram No. 191 of the 11th September. [1] Please inform Prime Minister of the Commonwealth as follows [2]:- 1. His Majesty’s Government in the United Kingdom are grateful for the Prime Minister’s message, which seems to them to set...’
223. LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 13 September 1939; ‘Memorandum 13 September 1939, AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSIONER, CANADA 1. The object of the appointment of a High Commissioner in Canada is to secure representation of the Commonwealth Government. The High Commissioner will act as the channel of communication to the Canadian Government and will in turn keep the Commonwealth Government...’
224. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 13 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 13 September 1939, VERY URGENT Wool. We have received very strong representations from Consul- General for Japan [1] that 300,000 bales of Australian wool be made available for purchase by Japan during the period ending 30th June 1940. Consul-General suggests that price be determined by mutual agreement between...’
225. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 14 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 460 LONDON, 14 September 1939, 7.41 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Following is most confidential and every precaution must be taken to preserve its secrecy. Reference questionnaire my telegram number 441. [1] I had long discussion with sub-committee of War Cabinet, Simon [2], Halifax [3], Chatfield...’
226. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 14 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 14 September 1939, 8.26 p.m. IMMEDIATE PERSONAL MOST SECRET Wool. Your telegram September 13th. [1] Representations made to you by the Consul-General for Japan [2] have been discussed with the United Kingdom Government. They entirely agree as to the desirability of meeting the Japanese request in the...’
227. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 15 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered n.d. [c. 15 September 1939], SECRET AND PERSONAL I have been much exercised about the establishment of our legation at Washington to which I attach great importance. It seems to me that an Australian Minister to the United States could perform an invaluable function if he were able...’
228. MR FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT, U.S. PRESIDENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 16 September 1939; ‘Letter WASHINGTON, 16 September 1939 I have received through the British Ambassador [1] your personal message of September seventh. [2] May I say at once that I am glad to have, your views and that I fully appreciate the spirit which prompted you to send me this message. Earlier this...’
229. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 18 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 477 LONDON, 18 September 1939, 8.16 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET For Prime Minister. Personal for himself Your most secret personal cable. [1] Have given matter much thought and have fully discussed with Prime Minister. [2] Hope to cable reply tomorrow. BRUCE _ 1 Document 227. 2 Neville Chamberlain....’
230. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 18 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 476 (extract) LONDON, 18 September 1939, 8.16 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET U.S.S.R. action. [1] Position still Most confused. I gather that war cabinet this morning decided no useful action could be taken. Following views are of interest: U.S.S.R. British Ambassador Moscow [2] urges strongly that...’
231. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 18 September 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D15 (extract), LONDON, 18 September 1939, 10.08 p.m. Received 19 September 1939 MOST SECRET FAR EAST 1. United States Under Secretary of State [1] has informed the French Ambassador [2] that should France and Great Britain withdraw their troops from China on grounds of belligerency in Europe, as...’
232. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 19 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 19 September 1939, 2.46 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET PERSONAL HIMSELF ONLY Your personal cable. [1] I entirely share your views as to the importance of Australian Minister in the United States and the invaluable service individual with right personality could render in promoting better British-American understanding...’
233. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 19 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 478 LONDON, 19 September 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET PERSONAL Sub-Committee of War Cabinet have been considering question of consultation with Dominions. Recommendations which will probably be sent you today [1] are I understand as follows:- 1. Time not yet arrived for creation Imperial War Cabinet. 2. Pending...’
234. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 19 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 19 September 1939 MOST SECRET PERSONAL HIMSELF In event of your sending Minister to London I think most inadvisable Hughes [1] should come. I know Prime Minister [2] is of same opinion. BRUCE _ 1 W.M. Hughes, Attorney-General and Minister for Industry. 2 Neville Chamberlain. _ [AA:M100,...’
235. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 19 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 19 September 1939, SECRET We have been considering the possibilities in relation to Russia, and while we recognise that information is so meagre that we are not really competent to form a concluded opinion, our impression is very strongly that nothing should be done to cut off diplomatic...’
236. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 19 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 480 LONDON, 19 September 1939, 5.56 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER PERSONAL SECRET TIENTSIN There is a division of opinion here down following lines: (a) We should respond to Japanese ‘friendly advice’ of 5th September [1] by withdrawing troops from Tientsin as a gesture to Japanese whom it is essential...’
237. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO U.K. DOMINIONS OFFICE: 20 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 207 CANBERRA, 20 September 1939 SECRET In the course of a long talk late yesterday with the Prime Minister [1] he introduced with deliberate casualness the question of information from and consultation with the United Kingdom. He said there was a growing opinion among his colleagues that supply of...’
238. SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL: 21 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 21 September 1939, Timor concessions. Would greatly appreciate your advice as to present position. Company is without word since end August. MINISTER EXTERNAL AFFAIRS _ _ [AA:A981, TIMOR (PORTUGUESE) 22, iv] ’
239. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.A. BUTLER, U.K. PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS: 21 September 1939; ‘Letter LONDON, 21 September 1939 PERSONAL In the course (if our conversation with regard to the Tientsin position you asked me whether I could suggest any line which we might adopt in order to create more friendly relations with Japan. I then made one or two suggestions to you. I...’
240. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 21 September 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram Dig LONDON, 21 September 1939, 6.17 a.m. MOST SECRET In view of great range and complexity of problems confronting us all at this time we have been reviewing recently in the War Cabinet the existing system of collaboration between the Governments of the British Commonwealth and considering how...’
241. SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 21 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 7 LISBON, 21 September 1939, 5.02 p.m. Your telegram unnumbered of 21st September. [1] It has so far proved impossible. Minister for the Colonies [2] has not now [sic] returned and I made renewed representations on 13th instant and will press them again. SELBY _ 1 Document 238. 2...’
242. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 24 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 24 September 1939, HIMSELF PRIVATE AND SECRET Your private telegram representative abroad [1] -I would not think practical for one man to handle both London Washington. As regards proposal that I should send a Minister to London for limited period Chamberlain [2] has now formally extended this invitation....’
243. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 25 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 119 25 September 1939, MOST SECRET I have received your cablegram of 21st September [1] Your suggestions regarding sending a Minister to London with Military and Air Force officers are acceptable to me and I will notify you of the names in a few days. The appointment of Liaison...’
244. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 26 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 26 September 1939, 4.42 p.m. Received 26 September 1939 MOST SECRET AND PERSONAL 1. During last few days War Cabinet have been considering whole problem of future requirements in air strength and nature of effort likely to be required. Conclusion reached and [1] problem is one of...’
245. CABINET MINUTE: 26 September 1939; ‘Minute 194 MELBOURNE, 26 September 1939 DIRECTION OF THE WAR The Minister for Defence [1] circulated a memorandum dealing with machinery for the higher direction of the war. It was agreed that the War Cabinet, which should include such Ministers as the Prime Minister should direct, together with such Ministers...’
246. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 26 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 497 LONDON, 26 September 1939, 3.54 p.m. MOST SECRET The following has been received by the High Commissioner [1] from the United Kingdom authorities. It has been learned from a very secret but entirely reliable source that the Japanese Government have circularised certain of their representatives abroad, including the...’
247. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 26 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 499 LONDON, 26 September 1939, 5.59 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Strong feeling that in the near future Hitler [1] will attempt a strong peace offensive; even being suggested that he might indicate preparedness to resign in Goering’s [2] favour if this would assist the re-establishment...’
248. CABINET SUBMISSION BY SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 28 September 1939; ‘28 September 1939 MEETINGS OF THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS COUNCIL AND ASSEMBLY 1. On 4th September, 1939, the Secretary General of the League of Nations [1] informed the Commonwealth Government that the United Kingdom Government had notified him it would be impossible in existing circumstances for a British Delegation to...’
249. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 28 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered (extract) 28 September 1939, MOST SECRET PERSONAL Reference previous telegrams, would like you to reconsider Washington proposition further with idea that Casey [1] might go to London as High Commissioner. Regarding British Government’s invitation to send a Minister on a brief visit, with military and air officers, I...’
250. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 28 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 505 (extract) LONDON, 28 September 1939, 8.30 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET In view of possible peace offensive probably with Mussolini [1] as intermediary in my view imperative nature and form of reply should be fully considered before move takes place. Have obtained agreement to meeting with sub-committee...’
251. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 29 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered (extract) LONDON, 29 September 1939 MOST SECRET PERSONAL Your telegram yesterday’s date-WASHINGTON [1]-am further considering matter and will advise you as soon as possible. VISIT OF MINISTER-British Government would prefer delay of a few days in hope that concurrent announcements can be made from other Dominions. This should...’
252. SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 29 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LISBON, 29 September 1939, 7.34 p.m. After lengthy negotiations with representatives of Oil Search Ltd, Minister of Colonies [1] has informed the Commercial Secretary [2] that he is prepared to grant concession for area lying either east or west meridian 126. Minister maintained that Wittouck [3] has moral...’
253. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 29 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 510 LONDON, 29 September 1939, 7.35 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Extremely difficult to obtain any clear appreciation of the significance and probable consequences of the German-Soviet declaration. [1] There is a feeling that statement ‘in the case of war being continued, joint consultations will take...’
254. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 29 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 511 LONDON, 29 September 1939, 8.02 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Long meeting took place last night with sub-committee referred to in my telegram 505. [1] Discussion was with regard peace offensive which it appeared certain would be attempted in the near future. Method and character...’
255. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 30 September 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 30 September 1939, MOST SECRET I would be most grateful if you would convey to the British Government our request for advice at the earliest possible moment as to military position which would be created in the event of Russia declaring war and co-operating with Germany in military...’
256. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 30 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 514 LONDON, 30 September 1939, 7.39 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR THE PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF Definite feeling of War Cabinet is that German-Soviet Agreement will not be expanded into military alliance and that Soviet will not give military assistance to Germany. This, however, is merely a...’
257. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 30 September 1939; ‘Cablegram 513 LONDON, 30 September 1939, 7.43 p.m. PERSONAL FOR COLONEL HODGSON MOST SECRET High Commissioner [1] has obtained the following from the British authorities: ‘It has been learned from an entirely reliable source that the Japanese Foreign Office have instructed their Consul General at Sydney [2], in regard to...’
258. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 2 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 2 October 1939, 3.47 p.m. MOST SECRET AND PERSONAL Mr Bruce [1] has asked me to reply direct to your most secret and personal telegram to him of 30th September concerning the position resulting from the Soviet-German agreement. [2] Both points raised by you are included in...’
259. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 3 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 3 October 1939, 4.01 p.m. IMMEDIATE PERSONAL HIMSELF MOST SECRET Notwithstanding most anxious thought am unable to convince Myself that any usefulness I may have been is not better employed in London than Washington. Recognize however it is for you to determine where I shall be used....’
260. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 3 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 520 (extract) LONDON, 3 October 1939, 6.32 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET General reaction to Prime Minister’s statement favourable. [1] More important in my view is statement that will be made if and when definite peace proposals are put forward. Am continuing pressure to ensure preparation of replies...’
261. SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL: 4 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 4 October 1939, Reference your telegram 29th September. [1] I would refer you to my telegram of 25th May [2] stating Oil Search not prepared to proceed with proposal, but Oil Concessions ready to raise necessary capital. Substance of your telegram under reference has been communicated to Oil...’
262. PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT TO HIGH COMMISSIONER'S OFFICE IN LONDON: 4 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 4 October 1939, The Lake George Company has approached the Government regarding the disposal of its production of lead and zinc concentrates estimated at 4,500 tons per annum. It states that it had contracts with Belgium and Germany under which it sold its full surplus. The Company seems...’
263. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 4 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 4 October 1939, 2. 50 p.m. MOST SECRET PERSONAL My telegram of 2nd October [1]: Appreciation of military position, as requested in your telegram of 30th September [2], is being prepared as rapidly as possible, and we hope to send this on Friday. [3] As regards the...’
264. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 5 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 5 October 1939, SECRET Please convey the following formally from me to United Kingdom Government. The negotiations between His Majesty’s Government in the United Kingdom and His Majesty’s Government in Australia have now resulted in an agreement upon, I believe, all the principal conditions of the arrangement under...’
265. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 5 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 5 October 1939, MOST SECRET When you are conveying my message to United Kingdom Government regarding wool [1], desire you also discuss our position vis-a-vis Japan. The Japanese Consul-General [2] intimated early in September that his Government desired that 300,000 bales of Australian wool, comprising 2,000,000 bales merino...’
266. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 6 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 128 6 October 1939, I have issued the following statement to Australian press this afternoon begins- ‘The report which has appeared in certain newspapers this morning of a projected meeting of Dominion Prime Ministers in London next year is due to a misunderstanding of something said by me yesterday....’
267. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 6 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 529 LONDON, 6 October 1939, 7.30 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR THE PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Hitler’s speech. [1] Too soon to obtain any reactions. No immediate reply is contemplated but an authoritative statement of an interim character will probably be issued tonight. War Cabinet is considering the reply tomorrow...’
268. PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 7 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 7 October 1939, MOST SECRET Your telegram 6th October. [1] We have no detailed comment to offer on Hitler’s speech. But in general we regard it as in no way altering the circumstances in which we are at war with Germany or as providing grounds for peace. Hitler’s...’
269. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 7 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 532 LONDON, 7 October 1939, 6.55 P.M. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET War Cabinet decided this morning that reply to Hitler [1] should be very full, down the following lines-analysis of statement bringing out obscurities and contradictions, the impossibility of accepting the fait accompli in regard to...’
270. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 8 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 534 LONDON, 8 October 1939, 11.24 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Prime Minister of Canada [1] has sent cable to United Kingdom Government suggesting that ‘the United Kingdom and France should put their own positive programme of basis upon which war could be terminated, framed in such broad...’
271. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 9 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 539? [1] LONDON, 9 October 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Lake George lead and zinc. Following is reply to point (c) your telegram 5th October. [2] United Kingdom Government at the moment examining whole question of British Commonwealth trade with Japan but have not yet arrived at decision....’
272. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 9 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 5.39 (extract) LONDON, 9 October 1939, 8.05 p.m. CLEAR THE LINE MOST IMMEDIATE FOR THE PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Draft reply was examined by the War Cabinet this morning but considered unsatisfactory and a sub-committee of the Prime Minister [1], Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs [2], Chancellor of...’
273. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT BRITISH EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 9 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 60 WASHINGTON, 9 October 1939, 5.35 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Hitler’s speech and peace proposal [1] have had on the whole an unfriendly reception, the tendency being to describe them as offering no foundation for peace and to expect and approve of their rejection. Acceptance of them as a basis for...’
274. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT BRITISH EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, TO LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 9 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 61 WASHINGTON, 9 October 1939, 5.56 p.m. PERSONAL SECRET My immediately preceding telegram. [1] Most confidential. It is for this reason that it is important that our war aims should be stated as fully and clearly as possible at an early date. A more urgent need is for much...’
275. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 10 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 542 LONDON, 10 October 1939, 2 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Reference my telegram No. 541. [1] Telegram has just been received from the Ambassador at Rome [2] emphasizing that Hitler’s peace proposals [3] are obtaining increased support and urging that our reply must be of...’
276. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 10 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 541 LONDON, 10 October 1939, 2.02, a.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Full text of draft being cabled to you [1] but cyphering will take some hours. In my view it is purely negative and presents no picture either to our own people which would inspire them or to...’
277. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 10 October 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D32 LONDON, 10 October 1939, 1.18 a.m. MOST SECRET My immediately following telegram 33 [1] contains draft of text of statement which the Prime Minister [2] proposes to make in reply to Herr Hitler’s peace offer contained in his speech on 6th October. [3] Present intention is that,...’
278. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 10 October 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D33 LONDON, 10 October 1939, 1.17 a.m. MOST SECRET Following is text referred to in my preceding telegram. [1] 1. Last week in speaking of announcement about Russo-German pact, I observed that it contained a suggestion that some peace proposals were likely to be put forward and I...’
279. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 10 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 543 LONDON, 10 October 1939, 12.54 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Holding views in mind draft indicated in my telegram No. 541 [1], have been urging unofficially reconsideration and have made specific suggestions. If you agree necessity, while maintaining resolute attitude indicated in draft, for more...’
280. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 10 October 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D34 LONDON, 10 October 1939, 2.40 p.m. MOST SECRET Circular D-32. [1] I am anxious to give you more time for consideration of the draft of my statement in reply to Herr Hitler contained in my telegram Circular D.33. [2] I have accordingly arranged to post one making...’
281. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: October 1939; ‘Cablegram 545 LONDON, to October 1939, 8.03 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET New draft being sent tonight [1] considerably improved but still in my view not sufficiently constructive and lacking appeal to our own people and neutrals so vital at present time. I am taking no further action pending...’
282. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 10 October 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D36 LONDON, 10 October 1939, 11.22 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET My Circulars D.34 [1] and 35. [2] As a result of further consideration today the draft statement set out in my telegram Circular D-33 [3] has been revised. Paragraphs 1 to 6 stand subject to small verbal...’
283. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 11 October 1939; ‘Cablgram 133 11 October 1939 Completed draft of Mr Chamberlain’s speech received. [1] I have consulted with my colleagues of the War Cabinet [2] and now venture to make the following observations- We think that the speech, while an admirable and dispassionate statement, needs strengthening in two parts if it...’
284. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 11 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered (extract) 11 October 1939, SECRET Wool. Last portion of my telegram 5th October [1] referred to our desire deal with representatives of friendly neutrals. So far only neutral country specifically mentioned between us and the United Kingdom Government is Japan and following the favourable re-action of the United...’
285. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 11 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 549 LONDON, 11 October 1939, 7.15 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Your telegram No. 133 [1] which arrived in time for consideration by War Cabinet this morning created deep impression and but for short time available would I believe have resulted in considerable recasting of reply....’
286. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 11 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 128 (extract) LONDON, 11 October 1939, 11.39 p.m. MOST SECRET We are most grateful for the valuable comments and suggestions contained in your telegram No. 133 of 11th October [1] which was before the War Cabinet this morning when the draft statement was further examined. You will have seen...’
287. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 12 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 551 LONDON, 12 October 1939, 6.01 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER SECRET Japanese purchases. British Foreign Office attitude is that there is no objection to such sales provided that re-export either directly or indirectly to Germany is safeguarded. They feel, however, that long-term contracts should not be entered into or...’
288. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 12 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 552 LONDON, 12 October 1939, 8.19 p.m. CLEAR THE LINE MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET As all the Dominion Prime Ministers had cabled views indicating a desire that the reply to Hitler [1] should be more constructive, the War Cabinet this morning considered- (a) further modifications to...’
289. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 12 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 12 October 1939, 11.27 p.m. MOST SECRET PERSONAL Following for Prime Minister- In reply to request recently received for advice ‘as to military position which would be created in the event of Russia declaring war and cooperating with Germany in military action”, following appreciation has been prepared:-...’
290. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 12 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 130 LONDON, 12 October 1939 MOST SECRET Your telegram of 11th October, No. 133. [1] My telegram of 11th October, No. 128 [2] , and my Circular telegram C.92 [3] : Following from Prime Minister for Prime Minister [4] Please accept my sincere thanks for your telegram. We have...’
291. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 13 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 139 13 October 1939, SECRET My telegram 6th October, No. 129. [1] Rt Hon. R.G. Casey [2] has been asked by me to act as Commonwealth Minister. He will be accompanied by Major-General J. Northcott, Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Group Captain W.D. Bostock, Assistant Chief of the...’
292. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 13 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 556 (extract) LONDON, 13 October 1939, 6.36 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Information received today points to German Government interpreting the Prime Minister’s statement [1] as closing the door and as expressed from one source that the war has now begun. If accurate, reactions are contrary...’
293. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 13 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 135 LONDON, 13 October 1939 SECRET Your telegram 13 9. [1] We shall be delighted to welcome Casey to this country again [2] , and look forward to seeing him. We are also glad to learn that it has been possible to spare so strong a team of advisers....’
294. MR R.A. BUTLER, U.K. PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 14 October 1939; ‘Letter LONDON, 14 October 1939 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL In your letter of 21st September you were good enough to enclose some notes on the possibility of improving Anglo-Japanese relations. [1] I have now had an opportunity of discussing these with our Far Eastern Department, and you may care to have...’
295. GENERAL J.C. SMUTS, SOUTH AFRICAN PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 14 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 11 PRETORIA, 14 October 1939, 9.05 p.m Your telegram 133, to Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs [1] I congratulate you on your pertinent and statesmanlike observations, part of which were incorporated in Mr Chamberlain’s amended speech. [2] My somewhat similar telegram is being repeated to you in my...’
296. PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 16 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 16 October 1939, Japanese Consul-General [1] at present in Melbourne negotiating for 200,000 bales merino and 100,000 bales crossbred. He is prepared to give assurance regarding resale of wool and of woollen manufactures. Have indicated preparedness make interim supplies available, but no promise as to full requirements or...’
297. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT: 17 October 1939; ‘Letter MELBOURNE, 17 October 1939 1. INTRODUCTION With reference to your visit to the United Kingdom as the representative of the Commonwealth Government for discussions on matters relating to the Empire’s war effort, the observations and instructions in the following paragraphs are furnished for your guidance. 2. NAVY You will...’
298. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 17 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 563 LONDON, 17 October 1939, 7.21 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET I have just heard that the First Lord of the Admiralty [2] has this afternoon announced in the House of Commons that Royal Oak was sunk in Scapa Flow. This I was told on Saturday under strictest...’
299. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 18 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 18 October 1939, HIMSELF MOST SECRET Latham [1] has without request from me asked me to telegraph you as from him as follows:- begins-‘Venture to urge strongly you give earnest consideration to suggestion to represent Australia at Washington. Immediate (risk) to (Australian) (group undecypherable) and ultimate risk and...’
300. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 18 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered [1] LONDON, 18 October 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER HIMSELF PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF Am giving further anxious thought to Washington. In view of the importance of the issues involved, necessary approach quite impersonally, with complete frankness, ignoring ordinary reticences. In the United Kingdom, through long contacts and personal relations,...’
301. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO GENERAL J.C. SMUTS, SOUTH AFRICAN PRIME MINISTER: 19 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 19 October 1939, I gratefully appreciate your message of 14th October [1] and cordially reciprocate your good wishes. It is interesting to know from your cablegram to the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs [2] how similar are our views. MENZIES _ 1 Document 295. 2 See Document...’
302. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 19 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 19 October 1939 PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF On re-reading my telegram [1], I feel that the final suggestion- which, in any event, you may regard as impracticable-might appear to qualify the preceding statement that I am prepared to fall in with your wishes. This is not so. I...’
303. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 21 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 148 21 October 1939, Reference your telegram B.340 of 19th September. [1] League of Nations. His Majesty’s Government in the Commonwealth of Australia is in general agreement with the views of the United Kingdom Government concerning procedure to be adopted at postponed meetings of Council and Assembly. In addition...’
304. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 21 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 77 21 October 1939, SECRET Reference Dominions Office telegram B.340 of 19th September [1] and my reply of 21st October. [2] League of Nations. Question of future scope of League especially on political side is now being considered by Commonwealth Government. View is that League as a political organisation...’
305. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 23 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 23 October 1939, Central Wool Committee is most anxious receive advice regarding sales to neutrals. Japan negotiating closely. American interests are becoming most critical and are stressing necessity quoting merino. Delay causing considerable political and other difficulty. Same remarks apply sheep skins where some local interests, you may...’
306. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT: 24 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 24 October 1939, 5.43 p.m. SECRET Wool Sales to neutrals. Authority to control such sales not yet appointed here. Wool Controller plus Advisory Committee appointed on the outbreak of war to control wool internally in the United Kingdom. Controller and Committee representative of wool manufacturing interests. Was...’
307. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 24 October 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D52 LONDON, 24 October 1939, 10.09 p.m. MOST SECRET Following is a summary of a memorandum communicated on instructions by the French Ambassador [1] on October 23rd. (2) The French Government suggest that an early exchange of views is desirable with His Majesty’s Government on the problem of...’
308. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 26 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 586 LONDON, 26 October 1939, 4.46 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF Cable D.52. [1] This approach by the French raises issues of transcending importance and before any conversations with the French take place, the fullest consultation with the Dominions is essential. In it...’
309. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 27 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered n.d.[27 October 1939 [1]], SECRET PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL FOR HIMSELF I am grateful to you for your long cable regarding Washington [2], and for the valuable way in which you have analysed the various factors to be considered. On full reflection my judgment agrees with your instinct that...’
310. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 27 October 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D54 LONDON, 27 October 1939, 6.02 p.m. MOST SECRET AND PERSONAL My Circular telegram D.52 [1]: Following for Prime Minister from Prime Minister [2] :- We are at present considering the question of reply to be returned to the French Government in response to their approach on the...’
311. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER: 28 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 28 October 1939, MOST SECRET My thanks your message today through the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs. [1] In my opinion the immediate object is to win the war and to win it in no uncertain way, since a patched up and premature peace would inevitably expose...’
312. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 28 October 1939; ‘Cablegram 594 LONDON, 28 October 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Reference to your telegram of 21st October regarding League of Nations. [1] I agree with your summing up of future scope of League. It is clear that, as at present constituted, the League cannot go ahead on political side...’
313. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 28 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 28 October 1939 TO THE PRIME MINISTER PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF Your telegram 27th October. [1] Hope cable you on Monday definite suggestions on procedure and form of announcement. [2] At the moment my mind tends to my being specially accredited to the United States (an analogy which...’
314. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 30 October 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 30 October 1939 SECRET On the 9th September I sent to you a copy of my Government’s telegram No. 191 of the 8th September, containing certain suggestions as to naval, army and air force co-operation in the present war. As regards paragraph 4 of this telegram, relating to...’
315. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 30 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 30 October 1939 MOST SECRET PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF Washington. Had long personal and confidential talk with Kennedy [1], American Ambassador, to ascertain privately probable reaction of United States Government to my going to Washington to establish Legation. His view was, provided it was made absolutely clear that...’
316. CABINET MINUTE: 31 October 1939; ‘Minute 228 SYDNEY, 31 October 1939 WAR AIMS The Prime Minister [1] read to Cabinet a cable which had been received from the Dominions Office, indicating that the French Government desired the British Government to express its war aims. [2] The Dominions Office wished to ascertain the views of the...’
317. PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 31 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 31 October 1939, Your telegram 24th October. [1] Wool for neutrals. As you know Japan wants 200,000 bales merino 100,000 cross-bred. If less cross-bred made available merino will be reduced proportionately. Negotiations between Consul-General, Japan [2] and Chairman Central Wool Committee [3] proceeding satisfactorily. Confidential. Consul-General agrees on...’
318. GENERAL J.C. SMUTS, SOUTH AFRICAN PRIME MINISTER, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 31 October 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered PRETORIA, 31 October 1939 MOST IMPORTANT SECRET Your telegram 28th October, [1] I am in general agreement with the point of view you put and hope you will, like me, send preliminary appeals to the United Kingdom Government to be in no hurry with an answer to the...’
319. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT (IN LONDON): 1 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered n.d.[c.1 November 1939], PERSONAL SECRET We are in grave difficulties in House regarding soldiers pay on which Labour has challenged us and there is much Country Party and Corner support for the challenge. I have indicated that we will not give way, and unless something happens we will...’
320. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 1 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 1 November 1939 MOST SECRET Very sorry to hear of the difficulties you are facing [1] but at this distance it is impossible to express any views that might help you in the difficult decision you have to make. As regards myself the question is whether my...’
321. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 1 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 611 LONDON, 1 November 1939, 8.11 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF Does Casey’ know anything of our exchange of cables re Washington and in particular of the part you contemplate he might play? I am still waiting for further advice from Kennedy. BRUCE _ 1...’
322. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 2 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered n.d.[on or after 2 November 1939], Casey [1] knows in general terms and you may discuss it quite freely. MENZIES _ 1 R.G. Casey, Minister for Supply and Development. _ [AA: CP 290/6, ITEM 1] ’
323. SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 2 November 1939; ‘Letter LISBON, 2 November 1939 With reference to your telegram of the 17th August [1] I have the honour to report that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have stated that although they have not yet succeeded in obtaining the views of the competent Portuguese authorities on the draft agreement for...’
324. MR W.L. MACKENZIE KING, CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 2 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 17 OTTAWA, 2 November 1939, 10.24 p.m. MOST SECRET I duly received our telegram regarding the French suggestions on the subject of war aims. [1] I greatly appreciate your informing me of your views which have been noted with much interest. I also gave the question immediate consideration and...’
325. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K PRIME MINISTER: 3 November 1939; ‘Letter LONDON, 3 November 1939 Casey [1] and Bruce [2] lunched with me to-day when Hore-Belisha [3] and Maurice Hankey [4] were also present. We had some discussion about an Australian expeditionary force. Casey made it quite plain that the only element which was holding back an Australian decision was...’
326. MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 5 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered WELLINGTON, 5 November 1939, 9.15 a.m. MOST SECRET Your most secret telegram 28th October. [1] I would like to express the warm appreciation of your action in informing the New Zealand Government of your views on the vital question of war aims and to assure you that the...’
327. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 5 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C4 LONDON, 5 November 1939 TO THE PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Following are the most important matters that have emerged so far: Germany has 130 Divisions and can probably produce up to 160. France has 114. Britain has 5 Divisions in France and will have a total of 10...’
328. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 6 November 1939; ‘Letter LONDON, 6 November 1939 My Government has now advised me that they are desirous of establishing a Legation in Washington and accrediting a Minister to the United States at the earliest possible moment. I shall be obliged, therefore, if you will arrange for His Majesty’s Ambassador [1] to take...’
329. NOTE BY MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, OF CONVERSATION ON 4 NOVEMBER 1939 WITH SIR ALEXANDER CADOGAN, U.K. PERMANENT UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS: 6 November 1939; ‘LONDON, 6 November 1939 I went to see Cadogan and discussed with him the Procedure in connection with our notification to the Americans of our intention to establish a legation and of my visit to Washington to give effect to this intention. The upshot of the conversation was that we...’
330. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 6 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 622 LONDON, 6 November 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF Kennedy [1] has now advised me that reply to his enquiry was to effect United States Government most gratified learn of Australia’s intention appoint Minister at early date, would regard my being sent to establish Legation...’
331. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA: 6 November 1939; ‘Letter MELBOURNE, 6 November 1939 SECRET With-reference to your letter of 30th October, No. 549, Secret [1], in regard to the question of navy, army and air force co- operation during the present war, I desire to inform you that the Commonwealth Government approves of the proposal of the Admiralty...’
332. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 6 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C7 LONDON, 6 November 1939 FOR THE PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Following for Squires [1] from Northcott [2]: ‘General strategic situation as submitted to the conference by the Chiefs-of-Staff Outlined in official message from the Minister. [3] For your information following are the main features concerning the Army:- 1....’
333. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 8 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 628 LONDON, 8 November 1939, 6.30 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET [On 7 November 1939 King Leopold III of the Belgians and Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands offered their good offices to act as intermediaries and explore with each of the belligerent parties separately the possibility...’
334. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 8 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 630 LONDON, 8 November 1939, 7.22 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET War Cabinet considered Dutch-Belgian peace move and decided Prime Minister should make interim reply at Lord Mayor’s lunch tomorrow. [1] Was contemplating Dominions should be advised immediately of this decision. I have urged that form...’
335. NOTE BY MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, OF CONVERSATION ON 8 NOVEMBER 1939 WITH MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT: 8 November 1939; ‘LONDON, 8 November 1939 Dined with Richard. After dinner had a long talk to him with regard to America. I gave him in broad outline the story of my cable exchanges with the Prime Minister on the subject. The only thing I was not specific about was Menzies’ definite statement...’
336. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 9 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 9 November 1939, SECRET PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF Regarding Washington: There is growing criticism here at our delay and it would help me if I could within the next day or two announce your visit to America and the purpose of it. Is there any objection to this? [1]...’
337. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 9 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 631 LONDON, 9 November 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF Washington. The position has developed in two directions. Upon my putting in the request to the Foreign Office to move Lothian [1] to approach the United States Govt., Eden [2] made strong representations to me against...’
338. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 9 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 632 LONDON, 9 November 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET PERSONAL FOR HIMSELF ONLY Washington. In conversations with Casey [1] the only reference I made to him personally of the position was to say ‘I was under the impression that you had in mind that he might be willing...’
339. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 9 November 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D67 LONDON, 9 November 1939, 8 p.m. MOST SECRET Following for the Prime Minister. My circular telegram D.54 of 27th October. [1] WAR AIMS. My immediately following telegram [2] contains the draft of the proposed communication to the French Government which received preliminary consideration by the War Cabinet...’
340. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 9 November 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D68 LONDON, 9 November 1939, 10.15 p.m. MOST SECRET My telegram today, Circular D.67. [1] Draft statement begins:- Before receiving memorandum of French Government [2] , His Majesty’s Government had already given some preliminary consideration to the question of war aims. They had been prompted to consider this...’
341. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 9 November 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D69 LONDON, 9 November 1939, 11.30 p.m. MOST SECRET FOLLOWING FOR PRIME MINISTER My telegram Circular D.52 24th October [1], my telegram Circular D.67 of today. [2] Following is text of telegram of November 6th from His Majesty’s Charge d ‘Affaires at Paris [3]:- ‘In his despatch No....’
342. PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 10 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 10 November 1939, Following from Chairman, Wool Committee. [1] Matter price neutrals now extremely urgent also export price of tops. Japan and Belgium pressing strongly for supplies. When do you expect definite answer? Alternatively what is progress to date. _ 1 Alexander F. Bell. _ [AA: A1608, L37/1/5]...’
343. LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON: 10 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 85 10 November 1939, PERSONAL Have you learnt of any consideration being given to position Netherlands East Indies in the event of German (? occupation of)’ Holland? It would appear that in (? possible contingencies) such action might raise questions affecting for example trade, shipping and German interests in...’
344. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 10 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 10 November 1939, 12.05 a.m. SECRET AND PERSONAL Following for Prime Minister from my Prime Minister [1]- We are grateful for the information which you have given us as to the intention of the Commonwealth Government to establish a Legation at Washington and to accredit a Minister...’
345. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 10 November 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D73 LONDON, 10 November 1939, 1.48 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET My circular D.66 8th November. [1] Following for the Prime Minister:- In view of the threatening situation on the German-Dutch frontier the question of His Majesty’s [2] reply to the communication from the Queen of Holland and the King...’
346. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 10 November 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D75 LONDON, 10 November 1939, 1.54 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET My circular telegram D.73 of today. [1] Following for Prime Minister. The text of the draft reply follows in my immediately following telegram. [2] Please reply not later than 6 p.m. London time tomorrow Saturday 11th November...’
347. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 10 November 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D76 LONDON, 10 November 1939, 4.25 p.m. MOST SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE My immediately preceding telegram. [1] Following is the text [2] of the draft reply to the Queen of the Netherlands. [3] Reply to the King of the Belgians [4] would be in corresponding terms:- (1) I have...’
348. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 10 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 642 LONDON, 10 November 1939, 8.40 p.m. FOR THE PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Dominions Office D.67 [1] and 68 [2], paragraphs one to six, appear to be acceptable although in paragraph two I would prefer ‘will require’ for ‘can only be based’ which in my view links us too...’
349. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 10 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 639 LONDON, 10 November 1939, 9.30 p.m. MOST SECRET TIMOR From secret but entirely trustworthy source learned that the Japanese Minister at Lisbon’ is frequently telegraphing to his Government regarding possible developments in the concessions in Timor. He often mentions Banco Ultramarino and also a Companhia Ultramarina de Petroleo...’
350. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO LT COL W.R. HODGSON, SECRETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 10 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 644 LONDON, 10 November 1939 Your telegram No.85. [1] Personal for Hodgson. Have discussed matter at both Foreign Office and War Cabinet Secretariat. View taken here is that on all present evidence Dutch would resist a German attack on Holland and would co-operate with Great Britain as allies. This...’
351. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 11 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 162 11 November 1939, Reference suggested reply to the Queen of the Netherlands. [1] We agree with its terms and are willing that our advice to that effect should be referred to in the reply. [2] MENZIES _ 1 See Document 347. 2 This cablegram was repeated to the...’
352. MR W.L. MACKENZIE KING, CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 10 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 21 OTTAWA, 10 November 1939, 11.15 p.m. PRIORITY MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET We have received circular telegrams D.73, 75, 76 [1] and proposed reply to the Netherlands and Belgian appeal and have sent the following reply begins: (1) His Majesty’s Government in Canada concur in the suggested procedure of...’
353. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 11 November 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D82 LONDON, 11 November 1939, 10.26 a.m. SECRET My Telegram Circular D.76. [1] Following for the Prime Minister. War Cabinet have now considered further draft of His Majesty’s reply to the Queen of Holland and the King of the Belgians and the reply will be despatched tomorrow morning...’
354. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 12 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 163 12 November 1939, MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET Your telegram 10th November.’ His Majesty’s Government in the Commonwealth of Australia agree with the Canadian alterations and with those contained in your telegram Circular D.82. [3] Please repeat to Prime Minister of New Zealand [4], Canada [5] and South Africa....’
355. CABINET MINUTE: 13 November 1939; ‘Minute 228 CANBERRA, 13 November 1939 WAR AIMS The Prime Minister [1] read to Cabinet the reply of the British Government [2] to his cable on the war aims of the Commonwealth (31/10/39). [3] An appreciation of Sir Eric Phipps, Ambassador at Paris, was also read, indicating his views of...’
356. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 14 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered n.d. [14 November 1939 [1]], IMMEDIATE SECRET We are negotiating with Japan for sale of wheat portion cash portion terms. Would this conflict with British policy. Prompt reply would be appreciated. [2] MENZIES _ 1 See Document 357. 2 Menzies had previously sent unnumbered cablegrams to Bruce on...’
357. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 13 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 652 LONDON, 13 November 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET In reply to your telegram of 14th November [1] do not think this would conflict in any way. Will confirm tomorrow. [2] In connection with this you will be interested in the following: (a) ‘It is understood from a...’
358. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER: 14 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered n.d.[14 November 1939 [1]], SECRET AND PERSONAL Following for Prime Minister. [2] Thank you for your cable regarding Bruce and the proposed Legation at Washington. [3] I greatly appreciate your statements regarding the importance of having Bruce in London. What I first had in mind was appointing Bruce...’
359. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 14 November 1939; ‘Cablegram [165 [1]] 14 November 1939, Reference your Circular D.68. [2] Australian Government does not desire to make merely verbal criticisms. We feel that there are two underlying matters of great importance: The first is that we should do nothing to impair our complete unity with France and that consequently...’
360. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 14 November 1939; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 14 November 1939 SECRET AND IMMEDIATE I duly informed my Government of the decision of the Commonwealth Government, conveyed in your letter to me of the 6th November, approving the proposals of the Admiralty with regard to the transfer of Australian destroyers to the Mediterranean. [1] I have...’
361. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT (IN LONDON): 14 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 14 November 1939, MOST SECRET Your cablegram of 5th November [1] has been studied with interest and preliminary report of Chiefs-of-Staff will shortly be considered. You will recall from paragraph 8 of letter of instructions [2] that request was made for review of Australian Defence in relation to...’
362. WAR CABINET AGENDA: 14 November 1939; ‘Agenda 34/1939 14 November 1939, MOST SECRET AUSTRALIAN CO-OPERATION IN THE WAR: DESPATCH OF FORCES OVERSEAS In the attached cablegrams dated 5th and 6th November [1], the Minister for Supply and Development [2] raises the question of the despatch of Australian forces overseas. 2. The matter has been considered by...’
363. NOTE BY MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, OF MEETING ON 16 NOVEMBER 1939 OF U.K. AND DOMINIONS REPRESENTATIVES: 16 November 1939; ‘LONDON, 16 November 1939 [1] PRESENT Neville Chamberlain, U.K. Prime Minister Lord Halifax, U.K. Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Anthony Eden, U.K. Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs R.G. Casey, Minister for Supply and Development S.M. Bruce, High Commissioner in London Peter Fraser, N.Z. Minister of Education, Health, Marine...’
364. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 16 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 661 LONDON, 16 November 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Your telegram No.165 to Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs.’ Intention of United Kingdom Government was that reply, draft sent in Circular D.682, should be forwarded to the French, and followed by oral and private discussions referred to in...’
365. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT BRITISH EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 16 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 78 WASHINGTON, 16 November 1939 VERY SECRET In my telegram No. 75 of 13th November [1] I reported the anticipations in the United States press of an attack on Holland. Since then there have been several articles suggesting that in such an event Japanese would attempt to seize the...’
366. GENERAL J.C. SMUTS, SOUTH AFRICAN PRIME MINISTER, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 16 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 16 PRETORIA, 16 November 1939, 4.13 p.m. SECRET Your telegram 165 to Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs.’ I am very much in accord with the general tenor of your message, especially the concluding paragraph. At the present stage, however, and after the reply to [sic] the United Kingdom...’
367. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 17 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 17 November 1939, Your telegram of 16th November, War Aims. [1] My telegram No. 165 to Secretary of State [2] may be regarded as contribution to general discussion. Its purpose has been served if the points made are now more prominently in the minds of His Majesty’s Government...’
368. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 16 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C24 LONDON, 16 November 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET I have just received the British Government’s memorandum on appreciation of the Japanese position and will cable you a full summary of it tomorrow. [1] At first sight it reads very satisfactorily from the point of view of our...’
369. PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT TO MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT (IN LONDON): 17 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 17 November 1939, SECRET Representations received from Consul-General of the Netherlands in Sydney [1] asking whether you and Brodribb [2] on your return trip would be prepared to discuss with Army authorities in Java possibilities for supply from Australia of various Defence materials for Netherlands Indies. Discussions would...’
370. MR N. CHAMBERLAIN, U.K. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 17 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 17 November 1939, 2.26 p.m. SECRET AND PERSONAL I am very grateful for your telegram regarding the proposed Australian Legation at Washington and the position of Mr Bruce in relation to this. [1] We have thought the matter over again in the light of your message but...’
371. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 17 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C25 LONDON, 17 November 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Following is a summary of the Foreign Office appreciation of the Far East situation. (begins). The Soviet-German non-aggression pact of 23rd August altered the situation and halted the activities of the Japanese extremists to convert the Anti-Comintern Pact into...’
372. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 17 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C26 LONDON, 17 November 1939 MOST SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER Precis of naval appreciation of Australian naval defence. Begins. (1) A Japanese attack upon Singapore would require at least fifty thousand troops to undertake siege operations for some four or five months in difficult country with all the disadvantages...’
373. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 17 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 17 November 1939 SECRET For Army, Melbourne. General Squires [1] from Northcott. [2] The Minister telegraphed the Government today summary of Foreign Office appreciation on the Far East situation best summed up by the British Ambassador at Tokyo as follows:- ‘Japan has her hands far too full...’
374. FULL CABINET MINUTE: 20 November 1939; ‘Minute FC8 [1] CANBERRA, 20 November 1939 DESPATCH OF 6TH DIVISION OVERSEAS Without any decision either direct or indirect on the part of the Government to send the 6th Division overseas, the Minister for the Army [2] was empowered to instruct the Chief of the General Staff [3] to make...’
375. CABINET MINUTE: 20 November 1939; ‘Minute 196 Week commencing 20 November 1939, SALE OF WHEAT TO JAPAN In view of the negotiations which had taken place between the Wheat Board and Mitsui, which appeared to have committed the Government, in substance, to the transaction, it was agreed that the contract be proceeded with; but that...’
376. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 20 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C.31 LONDON, 20 November 1939, 9.35 p.m. MOST SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER Reference my telegrams C.25 and C.26. [1] At today’s conference we asked a number of questions of consequence in order to clarify the position as a result of which relevant British Departments are meeting again tomorrow to...’
377. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 668 LONDON, 20 November 1939, 9.35 P.M. MOST SECRET Timor. Reference my telegram 639. [1] Now established that Comparhia Ultramarina de Petroleos is a Portuguese company set up by Oil Concessions Limited. You will doubtless have been advised direct from Lisbon [2] of the Portuguese decree of 27th October...’
378. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER: 21 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 21 November 1939, PERSONAL MOST SECRET We have been considering in Cabinet the very difficult questions which arise in relation to sending troops out of Australia. As you know, we have a Division enlisted for service at home or abroad on terms similar to your own. Our general...’
379. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT (IN LONDON): 21 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 21 November 1939, PERSONAL MOST SECRET Referring your various cables relating to problems of Far East and Singapore, Cabinet is not yet satisfied, having regard to the figures you give relating to number of British Divisions in France, that presence of Australian Division is sufficiently urgent to justify...’
380. MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 23 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered WELLINGTON, 23 November 1939, 3 a.m. MOST SECRET PERSONAL Your secret telegram of 21st November [1]: The questions raised by you concerning the despatch of an overseas force have been considered by my colleagues and myself Acting on advice received from the United Kingdom Government and from our...’
381. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 23 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C34 LONDON, [23 November 1939], 12.10 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER Reference your secret and personal cable of yesterday. [1] I will reply to your first paragraph tomorrow. [2] Regarding tentative proposals to ship special division, War Office envisage the possibility of first brigade group approximately...’
382. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT (IN LONDON): 23 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 23 November 1939, MOST SECRET Your cablegram C.34. [1] Despatch from Australia of special division. Am having full Cabinet meeting Monday when we will determine our position. [2] Will advise you immediately thereafter. MENZIES _ 1 Document 381. 2 This matter was in fact discussed by Full Cabinet...’
383. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 23 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C36 LONDON, 23 November 1939, 8.56 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER SECRET AND PERSONAL Reference C.34. [1] Memorandum referred to in my telegram C.31 [2] not available till tomorrow. Will telegraph this and will reply to first paragraph of your telegram of 21st tomorrow. [3] CASEY _ 1 Document 381....’
384. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 23 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C38 LONDON, 23 November 1939, 11.55 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET In continuation of my C.4 of 5th November [1] and reference first paragraph of your Secret and Personal of 21st November. [2] The latest appreciation by French and British General Staff now anticipates that the Germans will...’
385. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 24 November 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D100 LONDON, 24 November 1939, 8.12 a.m. MOST SECRET Following for Prime Minister:- My Circular D.67 of 9th November [1]:- War Aims. Draft of proposed communication to the French Government has been further considered in the light of views expressed by His Majesty’s Governments in the Dominions and...’
386. SIR GEOFFREY WHISKARD, U.K. HIGH COMMISSIONER TO AUSTRALIA, TO DOMINIONS OFFICE: 24 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 301 CANBERRA, 24 November 1939 MOST SECRET Reference telegram from High Commissioner Wellington No. 452 of the 23rd November. [1] I saw Prime Minister [2] yesterday afternoon before receipt of the telegram under reference and he informed me that he had heard from Casey in London a day or...’
387. SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 25 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LISBON, 25 November 1939, 12.20 p.m. Oil Concessions. Concessions signed 22nd November. May I express to the Portuguese Government the thanks of His Majesty’s Government in the Commonwealth of Australia. _ _ [AA: A981, TIMOR (PORTUGUESE) 22, iv] ’
388. MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 28 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 224 WELLINGTON, 28 November 1939, 12.45 a.m. Following message has been sent to the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs [1] :- MOST SECRET With reference to your telegrams Circular D.68 of 9th November [2] and Circular D.100 of 24th November. [3] His Majesty’s Government in New Zealand concur...’
389. SIR HENRY GULLETT, MINISTER FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS, TO SIR WALFORD SELBY, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO PORTUGAL: 28 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 28 November 1939, In connection with conclusion of agreement on oil concession, Commonwealth Government is most grateful to you for your representations and unremitting efforts to achieve a satisfactory result. I would also be glad if you would convey my thanks and appreciation to the members of your...’
390. COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 28 November 1939; ‘Cablegram 177 28 November 1939, MOST SECRET Your telegram of 24th November [1] regarding communication French Government on subject of War Aims: Understanding that its views previously expressed will be borne in mind His Majesty’s Government in Australia concur generally. His Majesty’s Government in Commonwealth of Australia agrees with verbal...’
391. FULL CABINET MINUTE: 28 November 1939; ‘Minute FC10 CANBERRA, 28 November 1939 DESPATCH or 6TH DIVISION OVERSEAS The following decisions were taken by the Full Cabinet:- (i) The 6th Division, which was raised for service at home or abroad as occasion required, can be permitted to proceed overseas when it has reached a suitable stage in...’
392. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT (IN LONDON): 28 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 28 November 1939, MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET Reference cablegrams relative despatch of Division overseas, Cabinet has decided and I am announcing to House tomorrow that this Force, which was raised for service at home or abroad as occasion might require or permit, will proceed overseas when it has...’
393. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER: 28 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 28 November 1939, I acknowledge with thanks advice contained in your cablegram of 22nd November [1] and fully appreciate that course of action is entirely matter for your Government. In view, however, of principles (i) and (v) proposed in your letter of 23rd September, 1938 [2], and concurred...’
394. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 28 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C49 LONDON, 28 November 1939 FOR PRIME MINISTER PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL My present plan is to leave London with Brodribb [1] evening of 6th December, sailing by flying boat On 7th December from Southampton. The Foreign Office disagree NorthCott [2] and Bostock [3] travelling flying through neutral Italy and...’
395. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 29 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C50 LONDON, 29 November 1939 For Prime Minister. Personal. Further to the last half of my yesterday’s C.49.[1] The training requirements of the 6th Division have been given full consideration here. The War Office proposal is that the force be concentrated in the most suitable training area and to...’
396. PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 30 November 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 30 November 1939, My telegram 23rd November, League of Nations.’ Commonwealth Government desires McDougall [2] express views to Fourth Committee along lines indicated in my telegram of 21st October, 1939 [3], and especially to include the following points:- Commonwealth Government has examined Revised League Budget 1940. While appreciative...’
397. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 30 November 1939; ‘Cablegram C55 LONDON, 30 November 1939, 9.10 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Further to my C.50 [1]: New Zealand Government cabled suggesting slightly later date than 2nd January for departure of convoy from Sydney, Melbourne. In order to co-ordinate movements of both New Zealand and Australian brigade groups War...’
398. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT (IN LONDON): 1 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 1 December 1939, IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET Cabinet has considered your proposal that we should send First Brigade Group on January 2nd now amended to January 9th. [1] Having regard to the importance of co-ordination with New Zealand and to the points you make about the value of releasing...’
399. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 1 December 1939; ‘Cablegram C.59 LONDON, 1 December 1939, 10.58 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE MOST SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER In reply to your telegram received today. [1] In view of last two paragraphs I believe my telegrams must have been misunderstood. At no time has there been any sort of pressure by the United...’
400. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT (IN LONDON): 2 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 2 December 1939, MOST SECRET Thanks your telegram C.59, 1st December, reference Second A.I.F. [1] Am pleased to have your reassuring comments on British Government’s attitude. Glad if you would advise them at once in terms first portion my telegram 1st December. [2] MENZIES _ 1 Document 399....’
401. MR M. J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 2 December 1939; ‘Cablegram go WELLINGTON, 2 December 1939, 10.50 p.m. SECRET AND PERSONAL We are informed by Fraser’ that your Government is favourably disposed to despatch the first group of your force on or about 9th January. Should be glad if you would confirm this in order to permit us to arrange...’
402. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 2 December 1939; ‘Cablegram 161 LONDON, 2 December 1939, 5.48 p.m. SECRET With His Majesty’s [1] approval proposal for the establishment of a Separate Legation of the Commonwealth of Australia at Washington has now been submitted informally by His Majesty’s Ambassador [2] to the United States Government. The United States Secretary of State...’
403. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR M.J. SAVAGE, N.Z. PRIME MINISTER: 3 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 3 December 1939, SECRET AND PERSONAL Your telegram of 2nd December [1]: My Government has asked Casey [2] in London to advise His Majesty’s Government in the United Kingdom that we are agreeable to 9th January being fixed as the time for despatch of first group. Naturally I...’
404. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 4 December 1939; ‘Circular Cablegram D113 LONDON, 4 December 1939, 9.50 p.m. MOST SECRET Interim reply to French Government on War Aims. We feel that the amendment to paragraph 7 suggested in New Zealand telegram 224 of 28th November is an improvement and we propose to adopt it. [1] It seems to us...’
405. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 5 December 1939; ‘Cablegram 703 LONDON, 5 December 1939, 8.20 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Views expressed indicating fundamental divergence between Russian and Japanese aims in Far East conveyed to you in telegram No. C.25 of 17th November [1] are sound. In my view essential should not rely upon this fact but...’
406. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT (IN LONDON): 6 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 6 December 1939, IMMEDIATE SECRET AND PERSONAL Am asking Dominions Office to obtain permission from Washington for me to announce that early in New Year you will be appointed Minister to Washington. Greatly appreciate your cable [1] and your willingness to serve wherever needed but on full reflection...’
407. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS: 6 December 1939; ‘Cablegram 193 6 December 1939, IMMEDIATE SECRET Your telegram of 2nd December. [1] Would be grateful if you would ascertain through Lothian [2] whether United States Government would be agreeable to me announcing forthwith that after his return to Australia Mr Casey [3] will be appointed Australian Minister to Washington...’
408. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT (IN LONDON): 6 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 6 December 1939, SECRET AND PERSONAL Reference statement in your cablegram of 5th November [1] that we should send a second Division as soon as we can to make an Australian Corps, and Northcott’s observations in his cablegram of 6th November [2] that you consider plans should be...’
409. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 6 December 1939; ‘Cablegram C66 LONDON, 6 December 1939, 9.45 p.m. FOR PRIME MINISTER MOST SECRET Your secret and personal just received. [1] I think better that I should make no reference to people here on the subject of the Second division. Northcott’s and my references in cables to you and Squires were...’
410. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 7 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 7 December 1939, SECRET We have received your telegram of 5th December [1] Please convey following views to Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs [2]- I have read with great interest the joint appreciation of the Far Eastern position by the British, French and Polish Ambassadors in Tokio,...’
411. PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT TO MR H.A. PETERSON, AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT COMMISSIONER IN THE NETHERLANDS EAST INDIES: 7 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 7 December 1939, SECRET At request of Government of Netherlands East Indies, Mr Casey [1] and Brodribb [2] have arranged for discussion Netherlands Army authorities at Sourabaya during the evening that they will spend there on their way through to Australia by air. [3] Please inform Netherlands authorities...’
412. LORD LOTHIAN, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO THE UNITED STATES, TO U.K. FOREIGN OFFICE AND TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 8 December 1939; ‘Cablegram 882/87 WASHINGTON, 8 December 1939, 11.39 a.m. [1] CONFIDENTIAL My telegram No. 825. [2] In reply to formal note Secretary of State has today advised me [3] that appointment of Minister to take charge all affairs relating to Australia is entirely acceptable to the United States Government and that...’
413. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 8 December 1939; ‘Cablegram 710 LONDON, 8 December 1939 MOST SECRET FOR PRIME MINISTER [During November 1939 a majority of members of the League of Nations (including Australia) decided that circumstances were inopportune for a meeting of the Twentieth Assembly and that instead the Fourth Committee (finance) of the Nineteenth (1938) Assembly should...’
414. PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT TO MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON: 11 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 11 December 1939, MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Reference meeting League Assembly. Secretary-General [1] has been advised McDougall [2] will act as Commonwealth representative. Following views of Commonwealth Government are transmitted for McDougall’s guidance. (a) Soviet-Finnish dispute If resolution condemning Soviet action is proposed in Assembly, support of Commonwealth Government...’
415. MR F.L. MCDOUGALL, AUSTRALIAN REPRESENTATIVE AT LEAGUE OF NATIONS ASSEMBLY, GENEVA, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 12 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered GENEVA, 12, December 1939, 5.15 p.m. Your instructions [1] in close harmony with United Kingdom Government’s policy. Sanctions issue unlikely to arise. Reference to expulsion under Article 16 paragraph (4) power rests with the Council. Certain South American countries anxious for expulsion; the United Kingdom Government and France...’
416. MR S.M. BRUCE, HIGH COMMISSIONER IN LONDON, TO MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT U.K. EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 12 December 1939; ‘Letter LONDON, 12 December 1939 PERSONAL Many thanks for your letter of the 30th November. [1] I am extremely obligcd to you for having cabled to Stirling [2] about the Ambassador’s appreciation of the Far Eastern position .[3] You were quite right in your surmise, in suspecting my hand in...’
417. MR A.T. STIRLING, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 13 December 1939; ‘Cablegram 716 LONDON, 13 December 1939, 6.45 p.m. TIMOR. MOST SECRET. From secret but entirely trustworthy source very active regarding concession. He has reported to Tokyo that ‘Portugal under British pressure had ruthlessly overridden existing rights of Belgian capital and had granted concessions to Australia’. He states that on 2nd...’
418. MR A. EDEN, U.K. SECRETARY OF STATE FOR DOMINION AFFAIRS, TO COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT: 14 December 1939; ‘Cablegram 174 LONDON, 14 December 1939, 4.06 p.m. SECRET My telegram of 8th December, 167. [1] His Majesty has approved of the appointment of person named, and His Majesty’s Ambassador at Washington [2] was instructed yesterday to approach the United States Government as desired in your telegram No. 193 [3],...’
419. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT BRITISH EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 14 December 1939; ‘Cablegram 89 WASHINGTON, 14 December 1939, 5.30 p.m. Reference my telegram No. 88. [1] I am unaware of probable date of Mr Casey’s [2] arrival and realise that there may be special reasons why the Australian Legation should be opened under a Charge d’Affaires prior to his arrival. I would...’
420. LORD LOTHIAN, U.K. AMBASSADOR TO THE UNITED STATES, TO U.K. FOREIGN OFFICE AND TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 15 December 1939; ‘Cablegram 911/91 WASHINGTON, 15 December 1939, 12.45 p.m. Your telegram 903. [1] In speaking to Secretary of State [2] today about a matter connected with Australia, I mentioned to him Menzies’ [3] anxiety about the possibility of a Russo-Japanese agreement and his view that it was important to use every...’
421. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT BRITISH EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 16 December 1939; ‘Cablegram 92 WASHINGTON, 16 December 1939, 12.10 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE MOST CONFIDENTIAL You will note from the copy of Lord Lothian’s telegram of today to the Foreign Office copy of which has gone to you as No. 91 [1] that Mr Menzies’ anxiety reference a Russo-Japanese agreement was mentioned to...’
422. MR MASATOSHI AKIYAMA, JAPANESE CONSUL-GENERAL IN SYDNEY, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 19 December 1939; ‘Letter 19 December 1939, I have the honour to inform you that I am instructed by the Japanese Government to request you to be good enough to inform me of the final decision of your Government on the subject of the prohibition of the exportation of iron ore from Australia....’
423. HIGH COMMISSIONER'S OFFICE IN LONDON TO PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT: 20 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered LONDON, 20 December 1939, 10.02 p.m. Your telegram 19th December League of Nations Assembly. [1] In budget discussion McDougall [2] stressed need for further reduction in Secretariat expenses particularly in regard to political activity. Chairman of Supervisory Commission announced that in addition to 33 1/3% cut in total...’
424. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT BRITISH EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 December 1939; ‘Cablegram 96 WASHINGTON, 20 December 1939, 5.39 p.m. CONFIDENTIAL Addressed to Foreign Office No. 943, Canberra No. 96. My telegram No. 920. [1] Agrement granted please advise me proposed text and date announcement so that I may inform State Department. _ 1 Lothian to U.K. Foreign Office, 16 December 1939,...’
425. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT BRITISH EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 21 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 21 December 1939, Your No. 96 of 20th December, 1939. [1] For various reasons propose to defer announcement for ten days or so but will advise you of text before making it. MENZIES _ _ [AA: A461, A703/1/2] ’
426. MR R.G. CASEY, MINISTER FOR SUPPLY AND DEVELOPMENT, TO MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER: 21 December 1939; ‘Letter MELBOURNE, 21 December 1939 CONFIDENTIAL I cabled freely from London on all matters on which I believed the Government should have immediate information. I think it may be useful if I attempt, in this memorandum, to produce a broad picture of the state of affairs, from the point of...’
427. MR R.G. MENZIES, PRIME MINISTER, TO MR W.L. MACKENZIE KING, PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA: 23 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 23 December 1939, With reference to previous correspondence I desire to inform you that the Commonwealth Government proposes to appoint Major-General the Honourable Sir (Thomas) William Glasgow, K.C.B., C.M.G., D.S.O., V.D., to be High Commissioner for the Commonwealth of Australia in Canada. [1] Sir William Glasgow was a...’
428. MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT BRITISH EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, TO PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT: 25 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered WASHINGTON, 25 December 1939, 9.15 p.m. URGENT This morning the New York Times contained as front page news unofficial but authoritative report from Melbourne of the appointment of Casey. [1] As the State Department may feel that we have not respected their desire to have advance advice of...’
429. PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT TO MR F.K. OFFICER, AUSTRALIAN COUNSELLOR AT BRITISH EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON: 27 December 1939; ‘Cablegram unnumbered 27 December 1939, Your telegram 25th December. [1] Press reports entirely unofficial and unauthorized. Source of these reports unknown and probably intelligent anticipation on part of press. _ 1 Document 428. _ [AA: A461, A703/1/2] ’

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