Cablegram 132 CANBERRA, 30 November 1941
MOST SECRET
We have received a request from the British Government asking us to approve authorisation advance into Kra Isthmus by British troops if reconnaissance established fact that escorted Japanese ships are approaching Isthmus. [1] We have received all your telegrams up to the present and our reply to the United Kingdom Government is contained in my immediately following telegram. [2]
In these new moves we have no definitive statement as to whether Hull [3] has completely abandoned talks with Kurusu. [4] Our view as expressed to you and Bruce [5] was that the breakdown should be avoided if possible and that Hull should be strongly encouraged not to give up attempt. [6] We have not received even as yet his counter proposals presumably because you were not furnished with a copy.
Following on above just received your 1053 [7] which was delivered after your 1054. [8] In view of changing situation suggest better not to proceed at present moment with your proposal as outlined 1053. If you proceed with it later, suggest you preserve greatest caution possible; otherwise there will be misunderstanding by Halifax [9] with whom you might discuss possibility. It would be far better if Hull could be induced to resume talks.
CURTIN
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1 Document 139.
2 See Document 142, note 1.
3 U.S. Secretary of State.
4 Japanese special envoy to the United States.
5 High Commissioner in the United Kingdom.
6 See Documents 135 and 137.
7 Document 140.
8 Dispatched 30 November. On file AA : A981, Japan 178.
9 U.K. Ambassador to the United States.
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[AA : A981, JAPAN 178]