Documents on Australian Foreign Policy :: Volume 9: January

1. HASLUCK TO DUNK: 31 December 1945; ‘Cablegram 12720 LONDON, 31 December 945, 3.25 p.m. TOP SECRET PERSONAL Following information was obtained in various personal conversations at prompting of Dr. Evatt and is forwarded for submission to him on arrival. [1] Presidency of Assembly. Salamanca [2] states Russians have objected to Spaak or any other Western European...’
2. LEGATION IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 31 December 1945; ‘Cablegram 1213 WASHINGTON, 31 December 1945, 9.53 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Our 922 of 19th October and 1124 6th December and your 1191 11th December, 1945. [1] Japanese war crimes. The following Note has now been received from the State Department. You will see that it follows the lines set...’
3. EASTMAN TO PRINCE VIWATCHAI CHAIYANT: 1 January 1946; ‘Letter SINGAPORE, 1 January 1946 With reference to our discussions at Government House, SINGAPORE, on 11th., 15th., 19th., and 31st. December 1945 [1] and to the verbal agreement reached between us on the last mentioned date, I have the honour to request, on behalf of the Government of the Commonwealth...’
4. DUNK TO SHEDDEN: 2 January 1946; ‘Teleprinter message [CANBBRRA], 2 January 1946 Reference Dominions Office telegram D.2290 of 22nd December [1] and 12627 (U.N.0.34) of 23rd December [2] from High Commissioner’s Office, London. Trusteeship. 1. Prior to any decision on a declaration of intention to bring Australian mandated territory under trusteeship your views are sought as...’
5. EVATT TO DUNK: 2 January 1946; ‘Radio message [AT SEA], 2 January 1946, 4.30. G.M.T. Received 3 January 1946 SECRET 1. Thanks your telegrams which are much appreciated. I am assuming that you have done nothing definitive to accept the veto principle for the Far Eastern Commission embodied in paragraph 5(2). [1] Such a veto is...’
6. MINTER TO MAKIN: 3 January 1946; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 3 January 1946 I have the honor to refer to my note of October 8,1945 [1] and, acting under instructions from my Government, to extend to the Government of Australia on behalf of the Governments of the United States of America, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, the...’
7. DE VALERA TO CHIFLEY: 2 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 1 DUBLIN, 2 January 1946, 5.30 p.m. When making proposals for an exchange of representatives in my telegram of 22nd November [1] I should have mentioned that whilst we should like to be able to announce in the near future that our two Governments have agreed to an exchange...’
8. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO WATT: 4 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 19 CANBERRA, 4 January 1946 SECRET Your 435 of 26th November. [1] We wish to accredit our Military Mission to Germany to the Control Council for Austria, as suggested by the Dominions Office, and would be glad if you would request the United Kingdom Government to communicate this wish...’
9. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO WATT: 6 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 23 CANBERRA, 6 January 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET Reference Dominions Office telegrams D.2065, D.284 and D.366. [1] International Health Organisation. 1. We feel United Kingdom proposals for formation proposed health organisation raise similar uncertainties as to its status as in case of their approach to U.N.E.S.C.O., namely whether a specialized...’
10. SHEDDEN TO DUNK: 7 January 1946; ‘Teleprinter message [MELBOURNE], 7 January 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Your message of 2nd January, regarding the bringing of Australian Mandated Territory under the trusteeship provisions of the United Nations organisation. [1] Following views on this matter have been expressed by Defence Committee:- (a) On the assumption that we intend...’
11. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO POSTS: 7 January 1946; ‘Cablegram unnumbered CANBERRA, 7 January 1946 MISSION TO LONDON AND WASHINGTON Dr. Evatt’s analysis My mission to London followed upon an invitation from the United Kingdom Government for Australia to be specially represented while the Council of Foreign Ministers settled the proposed treaties of peace between Allies and enemy powers...’
12. EGGLESTON TO EVATT: 7 January 1946; ‘Dispatch 1/46 (extract) WASHINGTON, 7 January 1946 [matter omitted] [1] The view put by many commentators and endorsed by the Secretary of State is that American interests are safeguarded. This seems to be based on the assumption made that the United States, with MacArthur as Supreme Commander, is in occupation,...’
13. REPORT BY WALKER: 7 January 1946; ‘Extracts [7 JANUARY 1946] [1] REPORT OF THE AUSTRALIAN DELEGATE TO THE PARIS CONFERENCE ON REPARATIONS 9th November to 21st December, 1945 The Paris Conference on Reparations met on the invitation of the Governments of France, the United States and the United Kingdom from 9th November to 21st December, 1945,...’
14. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 8 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 136 (extract) LONDON, 8 January 1946, 6 p.m. Assembly 1. [matter omitted] 5. The Delegations of the Soviet Union, United Kingdom, United States, France, China and Canada have presented the following resolution on atomic energy ‘Resolved by the General Assembly of the United Nations to establish a commission with...’
15. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO WATT: 9 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 30 CANBERRA, 9 January 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET The Minister has redrafted the note to be presented to the heads of Delegations. [1] The Minister instructs that the document should be presented by hand wherever possible by one of the Australian advisers. The closest secrecy should be observed, United...’
16. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 8 January 1946; ‘Cablegram D39 LONDON, 8 January 1946, 9.32 p.m. SECRET Refugees. We are anxious that the question of assumption by the United Nations Organisation of the responsibility for dealing with the refugee problem, the importance of which is steadily increasing, should be discussed at an early session of impending General Assembly....’
17. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HODGSON: 10 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 169 CANBERRA, 10 January 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET My immediately preceding telegram. [1] Provisional credentials. The Australian Delegation at the First Session of the General Assembly is as follows:- Delegates: Honourable N. J. 0. Makin, Minister of State for the Navy and Munitions. Right Honourable J. A. Beasley, Resident...’
18. EVATT TO MINTER: 10 January 1946; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 10 January 1946 I have the honour to refer to and thank you for your Note of 3rd January, 1946 [1], extending to the Government of Australia on behalf of the Governments of the United States of America, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, the United Kingdom and...’
19. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO EVATT: 10 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 195 LONDON, 10 January 1946, 11.30 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Assembly 2. 1. Credentials. Your 168 [1] and 169 [2] received and provisional credentials lodged. 2. Security Council-Note handed to all Delegations this morning. [3] Adjourned meeting at Dominions Office (see telegram 12645 from Hodgson [4]) was held late yesterday...’
20. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICER IN LONDON AND LEGATION IN WASHINGTON: 11 January 1946; ‘Cablegrams 45, 60 CANBERRA, 11 January 1946 SECRET On 12th October the Lebanese Minister in Washington [1] asked the Australian Minister at Washington if the Commonwealth Government formally recognized the Government of Lebanon. He was apparently unaware that about the same time Dr. Evatt agreed in London to request of...’
21. EVATT TO HODGSON AND AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS: 11 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 47 CANBERRA, 11 January 1946 SECRET Your telegram 195 [1] received. 1. I am pleased Fraser’s staunch support for Australia Security Council. Report of Egypt is difficult to understand because Egypt attitude throughout the war was one of doubtful neutrality right up to the battle of Alamein. 2. Solution...’
22. FULL CABINET SUBMISSION BY KEANE, SCULLY AND DEDMAN [1]: 11 January 1946; ‘Agendum 1019A CANBERRA, 11 January 1946 UNITED STATES TRADE & EMPLOYMENT PROPOSALS A. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS 1. The United States Government has submitted to the United Nations a programme for international economic collaboration which includes Proposals for the Expansion of World Trade and Employment, the Bretton Woods Agreement to set up...’
23. HODGSON TO EVATT: 11 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 229 LONDON, 11 January 1946, 9.30 p.m. TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE Your 47. [1] We have strongly Supported the view from the outset that both Australia and Canada were entitled to membership of the council but difficulties were created at Commonwealth meetings by the statement of the United Kingdom...’
24. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS: 12 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 204 (extract) CANBERRA, 12 January 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Your 136 (Assembly 1). [1] 1. You are familiar with our general line of approach which is to emphasize and secure position of General Assembly as the central and basic, organ of United Nations. The Minister is most anxious that...’
25. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON: 12 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 22 CANBERRA, 12 January 1946 TOP SECRET Your D1128 [1], D2214 [2], D2215 [3], D2230. [4] 1. We are in agreement with Mr. Fraser’s cable No. 420 of 17th December. [5] Under no circumstances should British Sovereignty or control of Pacific Islands be surrendered or altered without unanimous consent...’
26. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT [1] TO ADDISON: 12 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 23 CANBERRA, 12 January 1946 SECRET (Your D49 [2] D50 [3]). 1. In our opinion States directly concerned clearly means those with some tangible existing interest recognized by International law. It clearly does not include members of the Security Council as such or of United Nations or neighbouring States....’
27. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON: 12 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 24 CANBERRA, 12 January 1946 SECRET Reference my immediately preceding telegram. [1] Declaration begins:- The Australian Government, mindful of the obligations which the Charter imposes on all members of the United Nations administering non-self-governing territories, and conscious of its responsibilities as a trustee for the peoples of the Mandated...’
28. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO EVATT: 12 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 243 LONDON, 12 January 1946, 4 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Assembly 5. Voting for the Security Council commenced this morning. Motion for the adjournment by Gromyko failed to obtain support although Fraser took the opportunity of drawing attention to article 23 and emphatically presenting case for representation of the...’
29. EVATT TO AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS: 13 January 1946; ‘Cablegram UND1 CANBERRA, 13 January 1946 SECRET Security Council. Makin will represent Australia at inaugural meeting alternate delegate will be Hodgson. I would like Hasluck and Watt also to be in attendance if possible. Please forward to me immediately the best list of the countries which voted for Australia’s election...’
30. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO EVATT: 14 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 254 LONDON, 14 January 1946, 11.35 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Assembly 8. Reference UND 1. [1] Security Council. 1. As all ballots were secret it is impossible to say definitely who voted for Australia but assurances received before the event and congratulations after election give some indication. Analysis of...’
31. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 15 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 16 LONDON, 15 January 1946, 5.29 p.m. SECRET & PERSONAL 1. My colleagues and I are gravely concerned about the prospective world shortage of wheat. You know, I think, that Sir Ben Smith, the Minister of Food, has been in Washington recently to discuss the situation with the United...’
32. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS: 16 January 1946; ‘Cablegram UND4 CANBERRA, 16 January 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET Reference Dominions Office Telegram D.39 [1], refugees. We are interested from migration angle particularly. Since we are not on Economic and Social Council, endeavour should be made during Assembly discussion to secure Australian representation on any organ set up to handle refugees...’
33. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MAKIN: 16 January 1946; ‘Cablegram UND[5] CANBERRA, 16 January 1946 PERSONAL MOST IMMEDIATE Confirming Minister’s conversation tonight with Watt: 1. Minister does not agree your position as President Security Council [1] obliges you to take neutral attitude [2]; but on contrary will give opportunities to take lead on questions now to be discussed. 2....’
34. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 16 January 1946; ‘Cablegram.18 LONDON, 16 January 1946, 9.20 p.m. Received 17 January 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET INTERNATIONAL TRUSTEESHIP Thank you for your telegrams 12th January Nos. 23-4. [1] 2. We note your view as to interpretation of the phrase ‘States directly concerned’. We feel that it is difficult to put forward any interpretation...’
35. DUNK TO EVATT: 17 January 1946; ‘Submission CANBBRRA, 17 January 1946 Attached are notes regarding proposals for exchange of representation with- Portugal, Switzerland, Eire, Denmark, Czechoslovakia, Italy. [1] If we accept representation, it would be very difficult to reciprocate. Further, if we accept the above we can expect other European countries, e.g., Belgium, Sweden and Norway,...’
36. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EVATT: 18 January 1946; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 18 January 1946 MAJOR JAPANESE WAR CRIMINALS- POSITION OF THE EMPEROR Hirohito was named as one of the 64 persons appearing on the Australian list of Major Japanese War Criminals drawn up in October 1945. He appears as seventh (in alphabetical order) on the list. This list was...’
37. CHIFLEY TO ATTLEE: 18 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 28 CANBERRA, 18 January 1946 PERSONAL I have your cablegram of January 15th [1] about wheat and note your statement regarding the very serious world shortage that will arise for the next six months. Instructions have been given that every effort be made to export the quantity you mentioned...’
38. MAKIN TO EVATT: 19 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 52 LONDON, 19 January 1946, 2.30 p.m. SECRET On 18th January Addison called a meeting of British Commonwealth Ministers and Heads of Delegations to consider the question of bases set out in recent various cablegrams. Bevin attended and gave the backgrounds of talks with Byrnes and Molotov on the...’
39. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS: 21 January 1946; ‘Cablegram UND7 CANBERRA, 21 January 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE Iran. [1] 1. Consistently with our views the claim of Iran to be heard must be supported. Veto does not apply at this stage. See paragraph 3, Annex N of Report on San Francisco. [2] On receipt of communication Chairman of Security...’
40. TANGE TO BURTON: 21 January 1946; ‘Letter (extract) LONDON, 21 January 1946 ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COUNCIL We were surprised and naturally very disappointed not to be elected to the Economic and Social Council. [1] There were possibly two factors which explained the vote:- 1. Our success in the Security Council ballot for a place in the...’
41. PROUD TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 21 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 32 SINGAPORE, 21 January 1946, 7.47 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE (1) I have just returned from Batavia and have had discussions with senior British Dutch and Indonesian leaders. The situation is particularly confusing owing to the surprising action of the States General in appointing a Commission of Enquiry into van...’
42. DUNK TO EVATT: 22 January 1946; ‘Minute CANBERRA, 22 January 1946 AUSTRALIAN-DUTCH RELATIONS The attached paper [1] deals at length with the recent adverse drift in Australian-Dutch relations. The position in very brief summary is- (a) the trend probably started with the Australian Government decision not to admit Dutch troops to Australia for training (this was...’
43. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO BRIDGLAND: 22 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 81 CANBERRA, 22 January 1946 SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE 1. After conferring with Mansfield, Minister desires Bailey to appear before War Crimes Commission when First Australian List of Major Japanese War Criminals is considered. [1] He should stress the following points: (i) Question for Commission now is not whether Hirohito...’
44. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MAKIN: 23 January 1946; ‘Cablegram UND8 CANBERRA, 23 January 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE Reference Soviet and Ukrainian requests concerning Greece and Indonesia [1] it is consistent with our attitude in case of Iran [2] that they should be heard and as chairman you should accordingly agree to place these matters on Council agenda. As with...’
45. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON: 23 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 9 CANBERRA, 23 January 1946 SECRET Your No. 543 28th December. [1] 1. Australian Government nominates Mr. W. Macmahon Ball as British Member to represent jointly Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom and India on the Allied Council for Japan in Tokyo. 2. Mr. Macmahon Ball is head of the...’
46. MAKIN TO EVATT: 23 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 492 LONDON, 23 January 1946, 1.25 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE 1. Private and informal meeting of Security Council was held late yesterday evening in my room to discuss question of recommendation of Secretary General. [1] 2. Bevin opened discussion by indicating that there were only three definite candidates in the...’
47. MAKIN TO EVATT: 23 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 490 LONDON, 23 January 1946, 11.25 a.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Assembly 16. ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION 1. On 21St January [General Assembly] Committee One by 46 votes to 0 with one abstention (Philippines) adopted the resolution presented by the Big Five and Canada setting up an Atomic Energy Commission. The text...’
48. MAKIN TO CHIFLEY AND EVATT: 23 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 503 LONDON, 23 January 1946, 12.41 p.m. TOP SECRET IMMEDIATE 1. A meeting on the question of South Pacific bases between British Commonwealth and Byrnes who was accompanied by Dunn [1] took place in Bevin’s room this morning. [2] 2. Byrnes said their objective was to maintain facilities for...’
49. CHIFLEY TO MACARTHUR: 24 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 23 CANBERRA, 24 January 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET We have now been informed that the United States Government has agreed to the participation of British Commonwealth Forces in the occupation of Japan on the basis of the agreement completed on 18th December, 1945, between yourself and Lieutenant-General Northcott [1],...’
50. EVATT TO MINTER: 24 January 1946; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 24 January 1946 I have the honour to refer to my note of 10th January [1] in regard to the invitation extended by your Government to the Australian Government to participate in the Far Eastern Commission on the basis of certain specified terms of reference which were agreed...’
51. EVATT TO MINTER: 24 January 1946; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 24 January 1946 I have the honour to refer to conversations between your Government and the Government of the United Kingdom in reference to the granting of Long-Term Military Base Rights in territories in the Pacific. Australia and New Zealand, because of their geographical position, are directly interested...’
52. MAKIN TO CHIFLEY AND EVATT: 24 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 546 LONDON, 24 January 1946, 8.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Further to my telegram yesterday [1] have now received the following draft note from the Dominions Office with request for our approval before submission to the United States Representative for concurrence ‘At this morning’s meeting with Mr. Byrnes, the...’
53. MAKIN TO EVATT: 25 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 592 LONDON, 25 January 1946, 11.10 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Security Council 4. 1. Second formal meeting of the Security Council was held at three p.m. today. Discussion of items 7, 9, 10 and 13 of the Provisional Agenda (see report of Preparatory Commission, Pages 24-25 [1]) was deferred...’
54. EGGLESTON TO EVATT: 25 January 1946; ‘Dispatch 9/46 WASHINGTON, 25 January 1946 In various telegrams during the third quarter of 1945 I had the honour to report to you trends of opinion in the United States on the subject of the future control of islands in the Pacific which might have value as military, naval and...’
55. CHIFLEY AND EVATT TO MAKIN: 26 January 1946; ‘Cablegram UN[D]11 CANBERRA, 26 January 1946 TOP SECRET IMMEDIATE Your 503. [1] 1. We agree in principle to the proposal for a joint Commission. The terms of reference are, however, too narrow. In our considered view the establishment or use of bases must be related to an overall plan in...’
56. EVATT TO BEASLEY AND MAKIN: 26 January 1946; ‘Cablegram UND12 CANBERRA, 26 January 1946 TOP SECRET You will appreciate the very different emphasis in the draft terms contained in our telegram No. 11. [1] We would never be forgiven if arrangements for Pacific bases were made except in conjunction with the overall arrangement for mutual defence. There is...’
57. EVATT TO AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS: 28 January 1946; ‘Cablegram UND13 CANBERRA, 28 January 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET 1. Your Security Council 4. [1] Our policy on these grievances is to support the fullest discussion, consideration and investigation. 2. I should like to emphasise that the leader of the Australian Delegation is not only Chairman, but has the right...’
58. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO FRASER: 30 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 33 CANBERRA, 30 January 1946 SECRET Your 17. Danish Representation. [1] We should be glad to have your own views on the Danish proposals and desire to make the suggestion that in cases such as this Australia and New Zealand might agree to reciprocate by having either Australian or...’
59. MAKIN TO EVATT: 30 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 663 LONDON, 30 January 1946, 12.56 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE PERSONAL SECRET Security Council 7. Security Council. Meeting of five permanent members was held last night and they reached compromise agreement on candidate for the Secretary General, namely, Lie of Norway. in the meantime your direction had been observed and...’
60. MAKIN TO EVATT: 30 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 691 LONDON, 30 January 1946, 5.20 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE Assembly 39. Committee 6 (Rules of Procedure.) 1. Reference paragraph 2 of your UND14 (two-year term). [1] Elections to the Councils took place under supplementary Rule S of Assembly’s Provisional Rules of Procedure. This provides that term of office of...’
61. BEASLEY TO EVATT: 30 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 7 LONDON, 30 January 1946, 4.10 p.m. TOP SECRET IMPORTANT Re Macmahon Ball. [1] I discussed the matter with Addison who stated that he would prefer Keith Officer. He stressed the point that the nominee would also represent the United Kingdom and their wish was to have a representative...’
62. EVATT TO MAKIN: 31 January 1946; ‘Cablegram UND19 CANBERRA, 31 January 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE PERSONAL We are at a loss to know exactly what your telegram on Two Year Period [1] really means. The Charter is explicit on the point. The Elections have taken place, the Term of Office dates from the time of election and...’
63. REPORT BY PLIMSOLL: 1 January 1946; ‘Extracts January 1946 [1] REPORT ON VISIT TO JAPAN WITH THE FAR EASTERN ADVISORY COMMISSION ECONOMIC Introduction 1. Japan is now an economy of extreme scarcity. This has two important consequences for administration: it makes certain controls necessary at a time when the Allied Powers wish to encourage personal freedom,...’
64. PROUD TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 31 January 1946; ‘Cablegram 53 SINGAPORE, 31 January 1946, 6.48 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET 1. I had a long discussion with Sir Archibald Clark Kerr this morning. I had previously met him in Chungking and Singapore and the interview was very friendly and informal. 2. He discussed his Directive and said that there...’
65. CABINET SUBMISSION [1] BY EVATT: 1 February 1946; ‘Agendum 1059 (extracts) CANBERRA, [1 February 1946] REPARATIONS A. GERMANY In implementation of the Berlin Protocol of 1st August, 1945, which stated, inter alia, that ‘the reparations claims of the United States, United Kingdom, and other countries entitled to reparations shall be met from the western zones and from appropriate...’
66. MAKIN TO EVATT: 3 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 792 LONDON, 3 February 1946, 10.45 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE PERSONAL Assembly 52. Committee 6. Rules of Procedure. (Two year term). 1. Reference Assembly 39 and your UND.19. [1] Sub-Committee of Committee 6 on rules of procedure has now discussed Rule 78 [2] and supplementary rule S [3] governing term...’
67. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 4 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 42 LONDON, 4 February 1946, 6.08 p.m. SECRET AND PERSONAL I think the time has come when it would be great advantage to arrange, if possible, a meeting of British Commonwealth Prime Ministers. The particular subject which I have in mind as one on which we should take Counsel...’
68. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 4 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 803 LONDON, 4 February 1946, 11 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET 1. Assembly 57. A resolution re an international conference on trade and employment is being presented to the Economic and Social Council by the United States Delegation. [1] After recounting steps already taken for the establishment of international machinery for...’
69. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 4 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 43 LONDON, 4 February 1946, 11.40 p.m. IMPORTANT SECRET AND PERSONAL Your telegram No. 28. [1] Following personal from Mr. Attlee for Mr. Chifley: Begins. I was most grateful to you for your very helpful telegram of 18th January about wheat. I am relieved to know that you will...’
70. EVATT TO MAKIN: 5 February 1946; ‘Cablegram UND24 CANBERRA, 5 February 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE Your 792. [1] Two Year Term. I appreciate your problem on term of office but it is quite clear from journal [2] that rules were not approved prior to election and elections were not based on their acceptance. In fact rules will...’
71. CHIFLEY TO ATTLEE: 7 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 64 CANBERRA, 7 February 1946 PERSONAL MOST IMMEDIATE I have your cable No. 43 of 4th February [1] on subject of world food supplies with particular reference to wheat and flour. My Government is very much impressed with the gravity of the food situation as described in your message...’
72. WHITE AND HOOD TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 7 February 1946; ‘Extract BERLIN, 7 February 1946 SECRET AUSTRALIAN MILITARY MISSION REPORT NO. 3 [matter omitted] Part ‘F’ The Future Level and Composition of German Industry The Inter-related Problems of Economic Disarmament, Reparations, and the Determination of Germany’s Future Economy [1] [matter omitted] I. INTRODUCTION (a) Scope of Report 1. Recent planning...’
73. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 7 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 879 LONDON, 7 February 1946, 3.05 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Assembly 65. 1. Report of the Interim Committee on Headquarters recommending that permanent headquarters of the United Nations should be established in the North Stamford - Greenwich district about 40 miles from New York City was presented last night to...’
74. PROUD TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 7 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 73 SINGAPORE, 7 February 1946, 10.45 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Java. General Political Situation. I had discussions with Clark Kerr and later with van Mook. I also saw a number of other British and Dutch officials. The whole Indonesian Cabinet at the moment is in Djokjakarta and in any case...’
75. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EGGLESTON: 8 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 206 CANBERRA, 8 February 1946 SECRET Your No. 117 F.E.C. [1] Minter has just informed us verbally of telegram he has received in reply to Dr. Evatt’s note [2] summarised in telegram to you No. 136 of 25th January. Telegram advises that United States Government is taking the note...’
76. EVATT TO AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS: 8 February 1946; ‘Cablegram UND30 CANBERRA, 8 February 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Your 879. [1] Every effort is to be made to have San Francisco selected now or later. At same time you should not run the risk of any temporary location of the site being fixed outside the U.S.A. New York is...’
77. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HIGH COMMISSIONER'S OFFICE IN LONDON: 8 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 735 CANBERRA, 8 February 1946 SECRET Please endeavour to obtain the support of the United Kingdom Government to the election of Australia to the Central Committee at the forthcoming Council Meeting of U.N.R.R.A. [1] We propose to bring forward similar resolution to last August [2] to increase Central Committee...’
78. CHIFLEY TO ATTLEE: 8 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 68 CANBERRA, 8 February 1946, 10 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET & PERSONAL Reference your No. 42. [1] 1. I would thank you for kind invitation to meet yourself and other British Commonwealth Prime Ministers in London some time in May before opening of Paris Peace Conference. 2. Commonwealth Parliament...’
79. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 7 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 892 LONDON, 7 February 1946, 10.31 p.m. IMPORTANT SECRET Assembly 69. International Court of justice. On 6th February the Security Council and General Assembly met independently to elect judges of the International Court. The following 15 were elected-Hsu Mo (China), De Visscher (Belgium), Basdevant (France), Guerrero (El Salvador), Krylov...’
80. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 8 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 46 LONDON, 8 February 1946, 5.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE PERSONAL Your telegram No. 64. [1] I deeply appreciate the prompt and helpful decisions which you have taken. The further contributions now planned will be an immense help in the present critical situation. We will take these at once into our...’
81. BEASLEY AND MAKIN TO EVATT: 9 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 946 LONDON, 9 February 1946, 11.52 p.m. TOP SECRET 1. Your 686 bases. [1] 2. A Conference was held this morning [2] between representatives of the Commonwealth governments. Addison briefly reviewed the case and referred to the Australian proposal to widen the contemplated purposes of discussion and hold a...’
82. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 9 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 47 LONDON, 9 February 1946, 5.43 p.m. SECRET AND PERSONAL I am sorry to trouble you personally in the matter of the British member on the Allied Council for Japan in Tokyo to represent jointly Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and India, but I am afraid that we...’
83. BEASLEY TO ADDISON: 11 February 1946; ‘Letter LONDON, 11 February 1946 Following upon our discussion at your office last Friday morning [1] in connection with the control of bases in the Pacific, both Mr. Makin and myself have had telephone conversations with Dr. Evatt in Australia. We both feel bound to advise that the Australian view...’
84. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EGGLESTON: 12 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 229 (extract) CANBERRA, 12 February 1946 PERSONAL SECRET Following is summary of main aspects of United Nations meeting since our 162: Terms of office of Security Council In discussion of provisional rules of procedure in the Legal Committee of General Assembly, question arose whether members elected for two years...’
85. ADDISON TO BEASLEY: 14 February 1946; ‘Letter LONDON, 14 February 1946 I at once discussed with Mr. Bevin your letter of the 11th February [1] in connection with the American approach for the continued use of certain bases established on British territory in the Pacific. I need not perhaps elaborate what was said at the meeting...’
86. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 14 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 1044 LONDON, 14 February 1946, 11.33 a.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Assembly 83. HEADQUARTERS. 1. After further long debate during which Hodgson again made a strong case the Australian amendment to locate temporary Headquarters in San Francisco was put to the vote and rejected by 21 votes against 19 and 4...’
87. CHIFLEY TO ATTLEE: 15 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 78 CANBERRA, 15 February 1946 Your No 46 wheat and flour. [1] The question of increasing the extraction rate for flour has been considered and the following advice is furnished. Because of last year’s drought conditions no wheat or flour were exported at all in the later months of...’
88. CHIFLEY TO ATTLEE: 15 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 82 CANBERRA, 15 February 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET AND PERSONAL Your 47. [1] I have carefully noted your comments and should like to be able to meet your views in any way possible. However, after careful consideration and consultation with Dr. Evatt I wish to urge you to accept our...’
89. DIRECTIVE BY CHIFLEY [1]: 15 February 1946; ‘TOP SECRET [CANBERRA], 15 February 1946 DEFENCE POLICY AND NATIONAL SECURITY DIRECTIVE FOR THE GUIDANCE OF THE DEFENCE DEPARTMENT AND OF THE DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS ON RELATED ASPECTS PART I-BASIC CONSIDERATIONS 1. The Basis for Determining Defence Policy Defence Policy has to be determined in the light of an...’
90. CHIFLEY TO CLARK KERR: 16 February 1946; ‘Cablegram unnumbered CANBERRA, 16 February 1946 TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE Lord Mountbatten informs me that he has referred to you the question of the return to Java of some 700 Indonesians on the MANOORA which left Sydney partly loaded on February 15th and will complete loading at Brisbane February 18th...’
91. BEASLEY TO CHIFLEY AND EVATT: 15 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 24 LONDON, 15 February 1946, 11.16 p.m. TOP SECRET IMMEDIATE 1. A meeting took place to-day at the Dominions Office to discuss the future of the Italian Colonies. The United Kingdom was represented by Addison, Bevin and Creech Jones. Canada, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand were represented. 2....’
92. PROUD TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 16 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 2 BATAVIA, 16 February 1946, 1.35 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET I have seen signals passing between the Prime Minister and SACSEA [1] and I understand that Sir Archibald has cabled His Majesty’s Government in the United Kingdom informing them of the circumstances and asking them to pass a request...’
93. MANSFIELD TO EVATT: 16 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 52 TOKYO, 16 February 1946, 7.42 a.m. SECRET The suggestion has been made that the Japanese Government be included in the indictment as a prosecuting party. [1] This is based on the fact that by the terms of surrender the Japanese Government accepted the provisions of the Potsdam agreement...’
94. CLARK KERR TO CHIFLEY: 17 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 7 BATAVIA, 17 February 1946, 12.25 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE PERSONAL SECRET Many thanks for your message of 16th February [1] which has crossed one I sent to you through London. I understand your difficulties, but I am bound to say that I must adhere to the views specified in...’
95. CHIFLEY TO CLARK KERR: 18 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 5 CANBERRA, 18 February 1[9]46 TOP SECRET & PERSONAL Thank you for your message which I appreciate. [1] I am doing everything possible to meet you in your difficulty. The arrival of the ‘Manoora’ will be unobtrusively delayed so as to occur about 12th March. In all the circumstances...’
96. CHIFLEY TO BEASLEY: 18 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 25 CANBERRA, 18 February 1946 TOP SECRET IMMEDIATE Reference Nos. 946 [1] and 1003. [2] We cannot but express surprise at the procedure being followed in these matters affecting vital Australian interests in the Pacific. (1) We received from Makin a copy of a Chiefs of Staff report dated...’
97. EVATT TO MAKIN: 19 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 972 CANBERRA, 19 February 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Your 1134. [1] There has been delay in communicating as your telegram was received 19th February p.m. It is most unwise for Australian representatives to take part or be present at any such discussions and I must express surprise and concern...’
98. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO LEGATION IN PARIS: 20 February 1946; ‘Cablegram P15 CANBERRA, 20 February 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET Reparations. The question of German reparations has been before Cabinet [1] which directed further enquiry into- (a) The position regarding the acquisition by the Australian Government or Australian citizens of the rights to patents registered in Germany. (b) German patents, the rights...’
99. GARNETT TO STRAHAN: 20 February 1946; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 20 February 1946 SECRET With reference to the letter from this office of even date regarding defence science research and development I am directed by the Acting High Commissioner [1] to say that the United Kingdom authorities have had under consideration the question of the location of testing...’
100. BEASLEY TO CHIFLEY: 20 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 30 LONDON, 20 February 1946 TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL I understand that you are to be approached through the United Kingdom High Commissioner’s office with a suggestion that we should provide in Australia facilities for trials of guided missiles. We discussed this with W. H.COULSON,in November last when he...’
101. HIGH COMMISSIONER'S OFFICE IN LONDON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 1190 LONDON, 20 February 1946, 8.12 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Reparations. Following reply to your telegram P15 [1] is forwarded after discussions between the Resident Minister, the Dominions Office, Walker and Cochrane. 1. There is no indication that value of patents and industrial processes will be taken into account as...’
102. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MANSFIELD: 21 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 59 CANBERRA, 21 February 1946 SECRET Your 52. [1] We think suggestion is quaint and quite unjustified as Hirohito is part of the Japanese Government and this puts him on the wrong side of the record and further supports the myth that he, or any member of the Japanese...’
103. CHIFLEY TO BEASLEY: 21 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 30 CANBERRA, 21 February 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Your No. 1144. [1] 1. in regard to the future status and use of bases, we adhere to our previously expressed view that this matter can only be considered as part of an overall plan in which their role would...’
104. LEGATION IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 21 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 199 WASHINGTON, 21 February 1946, 10.14 p.m. UNRRA Council. 1. We understand that the Council is likely to meet in Paris in late July or August to deal with the problem of transition [1] when it may make recommendations to the United Nations Assembly for September. Assuming that no...’
105. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HIGH COMMISSIONER'S OFFICE IN LONDON: 22 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 1043 CANBERRA, 22 February 1946 IMMEDIATE Reparations. Authority is given to signing the Reparations Agreement but you should advise the appropriate authority that the matter is still under discussion by the Government here and leave the way open to withdrawal if the Government should so direct. [1] It would...’
106. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 22 February 1946; ‘Cablegram D146 LONDON, 22 February 1946, 12.55 p.m. IMPORTANT SECRET My predecessor’s despatch of 12th March 1945 D. no 38. [1] Repatriation of Soviet Nationals Difficulties have arisen over the questions of 1. Persons to whom the agreement applies. 2. Use of force in repatriation of recalcitrants. 2. We are...’
107. BEASLEY TO CHIFLEY AND EVATT: 23 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 123 LONDON, 23 February 1946, 2.58 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Your 30. [1] BASES. 1. Regarding discussions in Washington the latest information is that original intentions have been abandoned. This appears to be due to the inability of the United States to establish a firm case on sovereignty and further...’
108. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 23 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 76 LONDON, 23 February 1946, 4.07 p.m. Your telegrams 31st January No.54 and 20th February No.87. [1] International Health Organisation. We were glad to have the Commonwealth Government’s views before us in considering questions of form of Organisation before discussion in the Economic and Social Council. The Commonwealth Government...’
109. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO LEGATION IN WASHINGTON: 25 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 307 CANBERRA, 25 February 1946 SECRET Your 192. [1] Some care should be exercised before India and Philippines are added to Tribunal which is already very numerous. We cannot overlook the fact that India voted against Australia’s election to the Security Council. If we are to support India in...’
110. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON: 25 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 92 CANBERRA, 25 February 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET Your D.91 and D.92 Saving. [1] Modification of Italian Armistice terms. Australian Government finds the United States proposals for modification of Italian Armistice terms objectionable for several reasons: (a) As we have previously stated the exclusion of active participants like Australia and...’
111. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 25 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 77 LONDON, 25 February 1946, 2.55 p.m. IMMEDIATE Received 26 February 1946 1. Your telegram No.78 wheat and flour. [1] I much appreciate the consideration you have given to my suggestions for increasing the amount of wheat and flour for human consumption during the coming months to meet the...’
112. CABINET SUBMISSION BY EVATT: 26 February 1946; ‘Agendum 1059A CANBERRA, 26 February 1946 GERMAN REPARATIONS 1. Cabinet on 7th February, 1946, (Agendum 1059 [1]) decided that further information should be supplied on the following:- (a) The position regarding the acquisition by the Australian Government or Australian citizens of the rights to patents registered in Germany. (b) German...’
113. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 26 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 79 LONDON, 26 February 1946, 9.20 p.m. My telegram No.15 of 14th January. [1] Assisted migration. We have been informed by the Australian High Commissioner’s Office here that the Commonwealth Government desire an early announcement of completion of arrangements for the schemes of assisted migration to Australia to come...’
114. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO LEGATION IN WASHINGTON: 27 February 1946; ‘Cablegram 315 CANBERRA, 27 February 1946 Your 199. [1] U.N.R.R.A. Council. 1. It is desired that Brigden should lead the Australian Delegation which must be selected from personnel available in Washington. If possible Garside should attend. Please inform U.N.R.R.A. Headquarters accordingly. [2] 2. The reservation concerning our further contribution concerns...’
115. MCFARLANE TO MELVILLE: 28 February 1946; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 2[8] [1] February 1946 At the meeting of Governors of the International Monetary Fund which you will attend [2] the U.S. representative will propose a resolution permitting, on the same terms as original members, the admission to membership during a limited period of those countries listed in Schedule...’
116. WEBB TO EVATT: 5 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 83 TOKYO, 5 March 1946, 4 p.m. TOP SECRET PERSONAL The following is a copy of a letter this day addressed by me to General MacArthur. This is the culmination of some disturbing suggestions dropped by American Officers to British and Australian prosecutors as to General MacArthur’s position in...’
117. BEASLEY TO CHIFLEY: 5 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 50 LONDON, 5 March 1946, 4.08 p.m. SECRET & PERSONAL I visited the Foreign Office at the invitation of the Foreign Secretary for an informal discussion of the future food supply position. Lord Addison was present. Mr. Bevin stressed that the effects of the present world shortage would be...’
118. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO LEGATION IN WASHINGTON: 7 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 355 CANBERRA, 7 March 1946 SECRET Australia’s representation on Security Council will be the Australian Minister for External Affairs or other person nominated by him from time to time. 2. Mt. P. Hasluck has been appointed Counsellor of the Australian Mission at the United Nations site and he will,...’
119. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO BRIDGLAND: 7 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 166 CANBERRA, 7 March 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE Please convey the following personally to the Secretary-General from Dr. Evatt. ’. . . I share your anxiety that the best possible material should be available from which to build United Nations staffing and organisation. To assist you in this I have...’
120. LEGATION IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 7 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 255 WASHINGTON, 7 March 1946, 7.41 p.m. TOP SECRET Our 236. [1] The New Zealand Legation have now let us have a note of discussion between Fraser, McIntosh and Berendsen and State Department Officials on Pacific Bases. The Americans are seeking the right to operate jointly with New Zealand,...’
121. KEANE TO CHIFLEY: 8 March 1946; ‘Cablegram unnumbered WASHINGTON, 8 March 1946, 11.43 p.m. PERSONAL SECRET Since arrival in Washington [1] I have met and discussed the Australian position with President Truman, Dean Acheson, Will Clayton, Assistant Secretaries of State, Collado, Economic Chief to Clayton, Harry White, Assistant Secretary of Treasury, Schwellenbach, Secretary of Labour, judge...’
122. LEGATION IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 8 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 264 WASHINGTON, 8 March 1946, 9.08 p.m. SECRET FEC18. 1. The Steering Committee met on 8th March. The Committee recommended that the only duty of the Vice-Chairman should be to preside at F.E.C. Meetings in the absence of the Chairman. Recommended that there be three Vice-Chairmen Gromyko, Halifax and...’
123. PROUD TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 11 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 17 BATAVIA, 11 March 1946, 1.20 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET I saw Clark Kerr this morning. He talked with Sjahrir yesterday and the latter produced the Indonesian counter proposals. He asked Clark Kerr’s advice on these and as a result of their discussion certain amendments were made. The proposals...’
124. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON, FRASER, MOODIE: 12 March 1946; ‘Cablegrams 118, 71, 109 CANBERRA, 12 March 1946 IMMEDIATE Allied Council in Japan. Following are our proposed instructions to Macmahon Ball as Member of the Allied Council. We should like to have your comments immediately as Ball is leaving for Tokyo by air on 18th March. [1] (i) In all...’
125. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO BRIGDEN: 12 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 380 CANBERRA, 12 March 1946 IMMEDIATE The following telegram has been received from the Australian Minister, Chungking. Begins- U.N.R.R.A. From preliminary information which I have received, it appears that the organisation of U.N.R.R.A. in China is confused and lacking in strong benefits. Relations with the China National Relief and...’
126. REPORT BY WALKER: 12 March 1946; ‘Extracts PARIS, 12 March 1946 INTER-ALLIED REPARATIONS AGENCY FIRST SESSION OF THE ASSEMBLY Report of the Australian Delegate The First Session of the Assembly of the Inter-Allied Reparations Agency, established under the Paris Reparations Agreement of January, 1946, met in Brussels from the 28th February to 7th March, 1946. Delegates...’
127. UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE TO LEGATION IN WASHINGTON: 14 March 1946; ‘Memorandum WASHINGTON, 14 March 1946 SECRET The Department of State would be happy to enter into informal conversations with representatives of the Australian Government at an early convenient opportunity with respect to the desire of the United States to obtain in the Admiralty Islands long-term base rights to be shared...’
128. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO BEASLEY: 15 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 64 CANBERRA, 15 March, 1946 IMMEDIATE Re our cable No. 122 of March 12th to Dominions Office. [1] There has been much publicity here suggesting that United Kingdom favours revival of German Synthetic Textile Industry while United States favours cotton. In each case self interest doubtless has important influence....’
129. MELVILLE TO CHIFLEY: 15 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 293 WASHINGTON, 15 March 1946, 9.38 p.m. SECRET 1. At the membership Committee [1], 12th March, it was decided that countries represented at Bretton Woods could join the fund on the original conditions within a period of six months from this date. 2. I have seen no reason to...’
130. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON: 16 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 129 CANBERRA, 16 March 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Your 93 and 94 [1] Reparations from Japan. 1. We are in general agreement with the points made in your 93 paragraphs one and two and we agree with your view that the division of reparations should be [on] a broad...’
131. SHEDDEN TO STRAHAN: 16 March 1946; ‘Memorandum MELBOURNE, 16 March 1946 TOP SECRET GUIDED PROJECTILES Reference is made to your minute of 22nd February, 1946, forwarding copy of letter from the Office of the High Commissioner for the United Kingdom, Canberra, dated 20th February. [1] 2. It has been noted that suggestions have been made that...’
132. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 18 March 1946; ‘Cablegram D246 LONDON, 18 March 1946, 1.05 p.m. SECRET IMPORTANT His Majesty’s Government in the United Kingdom have been considering whether any formal action should be taken at the April meeting of the League of Nations Assembly to liquidate the Mandate system. The following possible courses have been examined- (a)...’
133. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO LEGATION IN WASHINGTON: 20 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 433 CANBERRA, 20 March 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Security Council. Please convey immediately, in writing, to Secretary-General, United Nations in New York or Washington following message from Minister for External Affairs: ‘Australia as a member of the Security Council requests that it should be informed officially by the Secretary-General...’
134. CHIEFS OF STAFF COMMITTEE MINUTE 11/1946: 20 March 1946; ‘Extracts [MELBOURNE], 20 March 1946 TOP SECRET APPRECIATION OF THE STRATEGICAL POSITION OF AUSTRALIA, FEBRUARY 1946 OBJECT The object of this Minute is to forward, for Ministerial approval, the attached Appreciation by the Chiefs of Staff on the Strategical Position of Australia, February, 1946. THE SECRET NATURE OF THE PAPER...’
135. LEGATION IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 19 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 316 WASHINGTON, 19 March 1946, 10.46 p.m. TOP SECRET Our 255. [1] The United Kingdom representatives have now had exploratory discussions at a low level with a view to ascertaining American objectives for Pacific bases. The United States representatives were Hickerson (State Department) Captain Dennison (Navy), Colonel Tait (Army)...’
136. LEGATION IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 320 WASHINGTON, 20 March 1946, 6.52 p.m. SECRET JAPANESE CONSTITUTION 1. F.E.C. decided on 20th March on the following statement on the Japanese Constitution [1]- ‘The Commission has received from the United States Government the text of a draft constitution which appears to have been drawn up in compliance...’
137. OLDHAM TO EVATT: 20 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 326 (extract) WASHINGTON, 20 March 1946, 9.46 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE Your 433. [1] I saw Lie this afternoon at Blair-Lee House and handed him your message. He pointed out that the draft rules of procedure required only three days notice and that these had been approved by the Committee...’
138. CHIFLEY TO KEANE: 21 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 444 CANBERRA, 21 March 1946, 9 p.m. PERSONAL AND SECRET Greatly appreciate your informative telegram of 8 March. [1] Advice from United Kingdom of 4 March indicated 1 September for preliminary trade conference at which bilateral agreements would be negotiated. I agree however it would be preferable if trade...’
139. HOOD TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 23 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 199 LONDON, 23 March 1946, 1.10 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Austria. 1. As instructed in your telegram 19 [1], we asked the United Kingdom authorities to place request before Control Council for Austria for accreditation of an Australian military mission in Vienna early this month. The United Kingdom representative placed...’
140. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HODGSON: 24 March 1946; ‘Cablegram UNY3 CANBERRA, 24 [March] 1946 SECRET Statement [1] begins. 1. The task confronting the Security Council in dealing with international disputes such as that brought before it by Persia is a critical one, which calls for an independent and impartial consideration of both its functions and its procedure. 2....’
141. BRIGDEN TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 24 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 344 WASHINGTON, 24 March 1946, 1.32 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET U.N.R.R.A. COUNCIL I. Now that we are Members of the Central Committee [1] we shall inevitably be involved continuously in European Political controversies and in particular with Soviet. One immediate problem concerns Austria where, according to the United States of...’
142. CHIFLEY TO TRUMAN: 25 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 460 CANBERRA, 25 March 1946 TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL Would you please convey the following personal message from the Prime Minister to the President through the State Department. As the Prime Minister will be leaving Australia on 14th April he would appreciate a reply from the President as early...’
143. SHEDDEN TO FORDE: 26 March 1946; ‘Note [MELBOURNE], 26 March 1946 POST-WAR DEFENCE POLICY Post-War Defence Policy falls into two main divisions-the interim and the ultimate strength and organisation of the Forces. The interim position is mainly governed by our immediate commitments in the shape of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force for Japan and the garrisons...’
144. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EVATT: 27 March 1946; ‘Submission (extract) CANBERRA, 27 March 1946 AUSTRALIAN REPRESENTATION ON THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON REFUGEES AND DISPLACED PERSONS [matter omitted] BACKGROUND TO THE COMMITTEE For the last few years, the major organisations handling the problem of refugees have been UNRRA and the Inter-governmental Committee on Refugees. For some time this arrangement...’
145. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO BRIGDEN: 27 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 471 CANBERRA, 27 March 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Your telegram 344. [1] U.N.R.R.A. Council. We do not see why our election to the Central Committee should involve us in difficulties with the Soviet Union and other countries in Eastern Europe, if practical questions which arise are dealt with in...’
146. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO LEGATION IN WASHINGTON: 27 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 475 CANBERRA, 27 March 1946 Your F.E.C. Nos. 29 and 34. [1] Japanese Constitution. We fully support Eggleston’s attitude. Our policy is that we confine ourselves to insistence on a democratic system which can evolve its new constitution for itself. F.E.C. remains the final authority and can disapprove of...’
147. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON: 27 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 139 CANBERRA, 27 March 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET Your telegram D.246. [1] Liquidation of Mandate System 1. We agree that possible courses (a) and (b) should be rejected. In any event it is hard to see how formal action in relation to a mandate by the League Assembly, as distinct...’
148. ATTLEE TO CHIFLEY: 27 March 1946; ‘Cablegram D285 LONDON, 27 March 1946, 11.20 a.m. SECRET My telegram D. No. 233 of 15th March. We have been thinking over arrangements for discussions between Prime Ministers which are to begin next month, and it may be helpful if I try to set out topics which might, if you...’
149. BRIGDEN TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 27 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 360 WASHINGTON, 27 March 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET U.N.R.R.A. COUNCIL 1. On food the Council will probably accept a compromise between- (A) The administration and the receiving countries and (B) in other countries, recommending action by all Governments. [1] Most of this action is now taken in Australia, but the...’
150. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HODGSON: 28 March 1946; ‘Cablegram UNY7 CANBERRA, 28 March 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET PERSONAL Only first three parts of your 359 (United Nations 13 [1]) have been received. They have been discussed with Minister, together with radio reports indicating that Soviet Delegation left Council Chamber and that Council would meet in camera. [2]...’
151. HOOD TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 28 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 206 LONDON, 28 March 1946, 5.45 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Mandates. Your telegram 139 to Dominions Office. [1] 1. Dominions Office meeting today discussed the question of line to be followed at Geneva in the light of replies from all the Dominions. There was some initial explanation of the South...’
152. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HODGSON: 29 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 496 CANBERRA, 29 March 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET UNY.9. 1. Your telegrams Security 8 [1] and 11 [2] received. Situation which has developed is extremely unfortunate and is precisely the kind of situation which cabled and verbal instruction to you were designed to avoid. It was the purpose...’
153. WATT TO HODGSON: 29 March 1946; ‘Cablegram UNY10 CANBERRA, 29 March 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE PERSONAL 1. Have discussed your Security 8 [1] and [11] [2] with Minister, who is disturbed at their contents. 2. Apparently Soviet Union accepted fact that Iranian matter had been placed on Agenda; yet situation was allowed to develop in such a...’
154. HOOD TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 29 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 208 LONDON, 29March 1946, 7.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE Mandates. Our 206. [1] Following suggested draft resolution for tabling by the United Kingdom delegation at Geneva has been received- ‘The Assembly has taken note of the expressed intentions of the states members of the League at present administering territories under mandate...’
155. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 28 March 1946; ‘Cablegram 126 LONDON, 28 March 1946, 6.30 p.m. SECRET In preparing study referred to in my telegram D.290 [1] planning staff drew to a considerable extent on the valuable suggestions made in your telegram No. 49 [2] and recommendations now approved by Ministers here are generally in line with your...’
156. WATT TO HODGSON: 1 April 1946; ‘CANBERRA, 1 April 1946 Cablegram 502 IMMEDIATE SECRET UNY.13. Have discussed your Security 16 with Minister, especially paragraph 8.1 It seems most desirable that Australian representative should participate in any investigation undertaken by Council. We would prefer investigation by a Committee of Enquiry appointed for purpose. As previously indicated2, we...’
157. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HODGSON: 1 April 1946; ‘Cablegram [510] [1] CANBERRA, 1 April 1946 IMMEDIATE UNY 16. Your 365 [2] paragraph 1. Assistant Secretary General for Economic Affairs. Minister desires that you should see Lie and make it clear informally that we disagree with view that positions of Assistant Secretaries General or other positions should be ‘earmarked’...’
158. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HOOD: 1 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 219 CANBERRA, 1 April 1946 SECRET Your telegrams 206 [1] and 208 [2]-Mandates. Although in paragraph 4 of your 206, it is stated that Secretary of State said at Dominions Office Meeting he had formed conclusion that Australian proposal was best and recommended its acceptance, we must point out...’
159. WATT TO HOOD: 1 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 220 CANBERRA, 1 April 1946 SECRET Reference our immediately preceding telegram 219, Mandates. [1] Have discussed your telegrams 206 [2] and 208 [3] with Minister. It would appear desirable to take some care, as regards Dominions Office Meetings in general, to avoid creation of any impression that complete agreement...’
160. BRIGDEN TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 1 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 399 WASHINGTON, 1 April 1946, 1.03 p.m. SECRET U.N.R.R.A. Council. 1. Your 471 [1] received. We have been able to do as you wish and expect to continue to do so on the Central Committee. There is general agreement that political issues should be avoided as much as possible...’
161. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO THE LEGATION IN WASHINGTON: 2 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 517 CANBERRA, 2 April 1946 SECRET Your FEC.52 and 54 Inter-Allied Trade Board. [1] 1. The relationship between the proposed Board and the F.E.C. and the extent to which its decisions would bind the United States Government are not quite clear. Glad if you would discuss whole subject with...’
162. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON AND HODGSON: 2 April 1946; ‘Cablegrams 153, 520 CANBERRA, 2 April 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET UNY 18 Your telegram D.293 Persia. 1. It is noted that instructions to United Kingdom representative on Security Council do not distinguish between ‘dropping’ and ‘adjourning’ the Persian question. Under these instructions it would appear that United Kingdom Government opposes any...’
163. BEASLEY TO SHEDDEN: 2 April 1946; ‘Letter LONDON, 2 April 1946 TOP SECRET No doubt you have seen the correspondence between London and Canberra on the United Kingdom Mission on Guided Missiles and are fully aware of the scope and intention behind General Evetts’ Mission. The party is going out as a result of the instructions...’
164. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HODGSON: 3 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 523 CANBERRA, 3 April 1946 TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE UNY.19. 1. The situation at meeting of Council on 3rd April [1] will require very careful handling. You should keep in constant touch by telephone. 2. Your general aim should be to press for full enquiry into all facts affecting...’
165. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 3 April 1946; ‘Cablegram D310 LONDON, 3 April 1946, 4.26 p.m. SECRET IMMEDIATE Addressed New Zealand, repeated Canada, Australia and South Africa. Thank you for your telegram 2nd April No. 98 on liquidation of the Mandates system. [1] The whole question has been further discussed between British Commonwealth Delegations and officials here in...’
166. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 3 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 430 [NEW YORK], 3 April 1946, 1.36 p.m. TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE From United Nations 35. Security 24. 1. Acting on instructions in your UNY19 Hodgson endeavoured in private conversations today to obtain support for further investigation of the Iranian question or for deferring the passage of any resolution...’
167. CHIFLEY TO STURDEE: 4 April 1946; ‘Letter 4 April 1946, SECRET AND PERSONAL THE BRITISH COMMONWEALTH OCCUPATION FORCE AND THE JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF IN AUSTRALIA It is possible that I may be asked in the United Kingdom [1] for my opinion on the British Commonwealth Occupation Force and Joint Chiefs of Staff in Australia, as...’
168. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HODGSON: 4 April 1946; ‘CANBERRA, 4 April 1946 Cablegram 533 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET UNY.21. 1. Confirming conversation with Hasluck. If Byrnes introduces motion [1], you should make a statement along lines indicated below. You should not move an amendment, but having made our objections clear, abstain from voting. 2. In your statement you should...’
169. PLIMSOLL TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 4 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 437 WASHINGTON, 4 April 1946, 10.30 p.m. SECRET F.E.C. 61 Inter-Allied Trade Board. 1. Reference your 517. [1] Have discussed your points with British Commonwealth delegations. 2. Clause 3 of I.A.T.B. terms of reference [2] is intended to cover your point 2(1) but consider redrafting may be necessary to...’
170. SHEDDEN TO CHIFLEY: 5 April 1946; ‘[MELBOURNE], 5 April 1946 TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL APPRECIATION OF THE STRATEGICAL POSITION OF AUSTRALIA, FBBRUARY 1946 Attached is the appreciation submitted by the Chiefs of Staff in reply to your minute of 22nd February 1946. 2. You will recall that the United Kingdom Government decided to abolish their Post...’
171. BALL TO EVATT CABLEGRAM 142 [1]: 5 April 1946; ‘TOKYO, 5 April 1946 Received 7 April 1946 TOP SECRET 1. On Thursday I saw MacArthur. Privately talked for one hour. MacArthur expressed warmest friendship for Australia and gave me a most cordial welcome. He assured me that despite his initial opposition to the establishment of the Allied Council, he...’
172. MANSFIELD TO EVATT: 6 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 143 ‘TOKYO, 6 April 1946, 4.24 p.m. SECRET The inclusion of the Emperor as defendant is now being discussed. There is at least a prima facie case of guilt which can be proved. This is not contested by the Allied prosecutor. When final decision is taken, political considerations will...’
173. BALL TO EVATT: 7 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 146 TOKYO, 7 April 1946, 4.26 p.m. TOP SECRET This afternoon I called on General Marquat the S.C.A.P. Deputy Chairman of the Allied Council. I told him that my call was unofficial, and I wanted to tell him privately of some of my personal reactions to General MacArthur’s speech...’
174. BALL TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 7 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 147 TOKYO, 7 April 1946 SECRET 1. It appears to me the following distinctions should be made- (1) Personnel who are on my staff as British Commonwealth Member; such personnel are- (a) under my executive control and (b) concerned with British Commonwealth and not with specific Australian interests. (2)...’
175. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON AND FRASER: 8 April 1946; ‘CANBERRA, 8 April 1946 Cablegrams 161, 112 TOP SECRET IMMEDIATE Your telegram D.316. [1] United States request for bases. 1. On 20th March Department of State handed to Australian Legation a memorandum suggesting informal conversations concerning use of base in Admiralty Islands. [2] Two documents were attached, namely a preliminary...’
176. MEMORANDUM BY BRIGDEN [1]: 8 April 1946; ‘Extracts WASHINGTON, 8 April 1946 CONFIDENTIAL THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND Memo. on the question of Australian Membership 1. It is not my duty to share the responsibility of Mr. L. G. Melville as advisor to the Government on the above subject. My reasons for offering these notes are that I...’
177. BROOKES TO DUNK: 8 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 33 BATAVIA, 8 April 1946, 11 a.m. TOP SECRET At the plenary sitting of the Conference which took place at 4 p.m. on March 30th at the Ambassador’s residence’, Van Mook and Sjahrir agreed that the following points were accepted by both parties and would be implemented, subject to...’
178. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HODGSON: 9 April 1946; ‘Cablegram UNY26 CANBERRA, 9 April 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE Your Security 28. 1. If Poland or any other country proposes that Spanish question should be placed on Agenda [1], your actions should be guided by the following principles:- (a) If a member of United Nations, especially a member of the Security...’
179. CHIFLEY TO DE VALERA: 9 April 1946; ‘Cablegram unnumbered CANBERRA, 9 April 1946 I greatly regret the delay in replying to your proposal for an exchange of representatives between Australia and Eire. [1] We are glad, however, that now in accepting your proposal for an appointment of a representative in Australia we are able to nominate as...’
180. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO MANSFIELD: 9 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 123 CANBERRA, 9 April 1946 SECRET IMMEDIATE Your 143. [1] Indictment of Emperor. As previously advised to you, if you are satisfied that there is a case, it is left entirely to you to act upon your considered view. At same time you should avoid any public protest if...’
181. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 9 April 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 48 NEW YORK, 9 April 1946, 9.15 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Security 32. 1. The Polish representative transmitted a letter to the Secretary General to-day to the effect that the existence and activities of the Franco regime in Spain had created a situation of the nature...’
182. STURDEE TO CHIFLEY: 10 April 1946; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 10 April 1946 SECRET AND PERSONAL THE BRITISH COMMONWEALTH OCCUPATION FORCE AND JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF IN AUSTRALIA In your personal letter to me of 4th April [1], 1946, you asked me for my personal views on the British Commonwealth Occupation Force and Joint Chiefs of Staff in...’
183. EVETTS TO SHEDDEN: 10 April 1946; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 10 April 1946 As I understand you are leaving for England with the Prime Minister on the 14th instant, I think it advisable to set out in writing my recollection of our conversation this morning. I do this as I am anxious to obtain authority to proceed in...’
184. REPORT BY JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF IN AUSTRALIA: 10 April 1946; ‘Extracts [MELBOURNE], 10 April 1946 SECRET PROGRESS REPORT AS AT 23RD MARCH, 1946, ON THE BRITISH COMMONWEALTH OCCUPATION FORCE INTRODUCTORY-THE JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF ORGANISATION: By agreement between the Governments of the United Kingdom, India, Australia and New Zealand it was decided to send a British Commonwealth Force to participate...’
185. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HOOD: 11 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 245 CANBERRA, 11 April 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET Your 236. [1] Committee on Refugees. 1. Our preference is to make organisations of a social and welfare character an integral part of the United Nations, either under the Economic and Social Council or as a subsidiary organ of the Assembly. (See...’
186. SHEDDEN TO EVETTS: 11 April 1946; ‘Letter(extract) CANBERRA, 11 April 1946 TOP SECRET [matter omitted] 3. As stated by the Prime Minister at the discussion on 10th April [1], he welcomes the idea of setting up a range in Australia, subject to the conclusion of an agreement later which would be mutually satisfactory to the United...’
187. BALL TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 11 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 156 TOKYO, 11 April 1946 SECRET B.C.O.M.1. Have not yet received reply to my 146. [1] To-day I have sighted MacArthur’s memorandum to the Council on minutes of the first Council meeting. It would seem that he insists that the functions of the Council are ‘exclusively advisory and consultative’...’
188. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON, FRASER, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT NEW DELHI: 12 April 1946; ‘Cablegrams 171, 117, 40 CANBERRA, 12 April 1946, 9.30 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Allied Council for Japan. Macmahon Ball has asked for instructions on the following points. [1] (a) I assume that Council Members should individually or collectively seek not merely to review, but to initiate, proposals if they feel such...’
189. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 11 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 150 LONDON, 11 April 1946, 10.30 p.m. SECRET Your telegram 440 of 4th December. [1] 1. United Kingdom Government have given very careful consideration to the important matters you raise and they welcome the opportunity of commenting on general issues involved in regard to the future of Australian Import...’
190. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO BALL: 15 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 5 CANBERRA, 15 April 1946 SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE Allied Council. Your 156. [1] 1. Your action in referring for instruction is proper procedure. The matters raised may be of fundamental significance and we consider that they should not be discussed until we have the opportunity of consulting the other...’
191. BALL TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 15 April 1946; ‘Cablegram BCOM2 TOKYO, 15 April 1946 TOP SECRET The Japanese people have not been told how long the Allied occupation or control will continue. In my view this ignorance of Allied intentions causes obstructions to successful application of Allied policy. The hope that occupation will be short encourages militarists and...’
192. REPORT BY WALKER: 16 April 1946; ‘Extracts PARIS, 16 April 1946 INTER-ALLIED REPARATIONS AGENCY SECOND SESSION OF THE ASSEMBLY Report of the Australian Delegate The Second Session of the Assembly of the Inter-Allied Reparations Agency met in Brussels from the 2nd April to the 11th April 1946. Prior to the Assembly there were also meetings of...’
193. EVATT [1] TO BEASLEY: 16 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 086 SINGAPORE, 16 April 1946, 11.40 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET In Singapore yesterday the Prime Minister and I discussed with Lord Louis Mountbatten the situation in the Netherlands East Indies. I consider it most important that Dutch-Indonesian agreement [2] should not be finalised without some definite understanding as...’
194. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 16 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 158 LONDON, 16 April 1946, 8.40 . IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Your telegram 12th April No. 171. [1] Allied Council for Japan, paragraph 2, your subsection (a). At the outset and until position is clearer we should prefer Mr. Ball to request instructions in all cases. 2. Your subsection (b)....’
195. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HOOD: 18 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 268 CANBERRA, 18 April 1946 SECRET Reference your 245 of 10th April paragraph 3. Refugees Committee. [1] Immigration authorities advise that large scale migration into Australia is governed by the housing problem, rehabilitation of the services and shipping shortage which may continue for two or three years. 2. Seven...’
196. BROOKES TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 18 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 35 BATAVIA, 18 April 1946, 9.50 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET During a closer investigation on 17th April of Japanese war crimes against Australian service personnel conducted near Buitenzorg, Squadron Leader Birchall, Officer in Charge, Australian War Crimes investigation is missing and Flight Lieut. McDonald also of War Crimes and...’
197. OFFICER TO MAKIN: 18 April 1946; ‘Dispatch 06 (extract) SINGAPORE, 18 April 1946 CONFIDENTIAL [matter omitted] [1] 11. The avoidance of famine or near famine in South East Asia with its possible effects on health and law and order must be a matter of concern to Australia, a near neighbour of the area. We can do...’
198. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 18 April 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 73 NEW YORK, 18 April 1946, 10.43 p.m. TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE Repeated London for Dr. Evatt. Security 42. 1. Cadogan resumed the debate on Spain in the Security Council this afternoon. [1] He stated that before the council embarked on collective action it must be sure...’
199. BROOKES TO BURTON: 19 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 1 [1] BATAVIA, 19 April 1946, 5.10 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET I would be grateful if you would confirm as to whether the following suggestions (some of which were discussed in Sourabaya) regarding the policy to be adopted by the [Australian] [2] political mission in the N.E.I. are in...’
200. STATEMENT SUBMITTED BY CHIFLEY TO PRIME MINISTERS' CONFERENCE: 20 April 1946; ‘PMM(46)7 LONDON, 20 April 1946 [1] TOP SECRET AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE POLICY Statement by the Prime Minister of Australia Important Note.-This statement was prepared prior to the receipt of United Kingdom Papers P.M.M.(46) Numbers 1 to 5 [2], and does not purport to comment on same. 1. The Interim Post- War...’
201. BALL TO EVATT: 1 April 1946; ‘Cablegram [Secret and Personal for the Minister [1]] TOKYO, 20 PERSONAL IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Following my report on 19th April, Council meeting A.C.J.4 [2], may I make some personal reflections on developments of the situation here. I feel that my primary problem as B.C.O.M. [3] member of the Council is...’
202. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO BALL: 22 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 10 CANBERRA, 22 APRIL 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET PERSONAL 1. Questions of extent of authority of Allied Council and of procedure raised in your ACJ/3 and related telegrams [1] are under consideration by Dr. Evatt and British Commonwealth Governments concerned. 2. For your own confidential information only, present departmental views...’
203. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EVATT: 22 April 1946; ‘Cablegram A8 CANBERRA, 22 April 1946 TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE Allied Council for Japan Would appreciate advice on three matters requiring urgent attention: (a) Instructions to Macmahon Ball on three points referred by him after first meeting of Council; (b) extent of authority of Allied Council as raised in MacArthur’s...’
204. BROOKES TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 22 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 39 BATAVIA, [22 April 1946] IMMEDIATE SECRET The following letter was handed to me this morning by the Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of the [Indonesian] Republican Government. ‘To Mr. A. D. Brookes, Representative of Government of Australia. 1. We beg you to convey to the Government of Australia...’
205. EVATT TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 22 April 1946; ‘Cablegram E9 LONDON, 22 April 1946, 2.24 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Reference IT to the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs and their 158 to You. [1] I must point out that your proposed reply to Ball was never submitted to me as it should have been. As a result...’
206. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 23 April 1946; ‘PMM(46) 1st Meeting LONDON, 23 April 1946, 11 a.m. TOP SECRET opening of Meeting 1. MR. ATTLEE welcomed Mr. Chifley and Dr. Evatt representing Australia, and Mr. Nash, representing New Zealand. He expressed his regret that it had not proved possible for all the Dominion Governments to be represented at...’
207. MEMORANDUM BY CHIFLEY: 23 April 1946; ‘PMM(46) 6 LONDON, 23 April 1946 TOP SECRET REGIONAL SECURITY IN THE PACIFIC, INCLUDING THE USE OF BASES BY THE UNITED STATES Memorandum by the Prime Minister of Australia THE GENERAL BASIS OF APPROACH-APPROVED BY AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT, 8TH APRIL, 1946 (1) RELATIVE PROVISIONS OF THE CHARTER Or THE UNITED NATIONS...’
208. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 24 April 1946; ‘PMM(46) 3rd Meeting LONDON, 24 April 1946, 11 a.m. TOP SECRET Military Bases in the Pacific The Meeting had before them- (a) A note by the Secretaries (P.M.M.(46)3) covering (i) a record of a meeting held in London with the United States Secretary of State on the 22nd January, 1946,...’
209. FORDE TO CHIFLEY AND EVATT: 25 April 1946; ‘Cablegram A19 CANBERRA, 25 April 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET As distinct from the inquiries which Brookes is making into the murder of the three Australian officers in Java [1], it seems necessary that the Commonwealth Government should take immediate steps to record a strong protest and, notwithstanding the expressions of...’
210. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 25 April 1946; ‘PMM(46) 4th Meeting LONDON, 25 April 1946, 3.30 p.m. TOP SECRET Egypt 1. MR. ATTLEE said that he wished to inform visiting Ministers of recent developments in the negotiations in Egypt. The British delegation had reached a position at which they must commit themselves to formal proposals to the Egyptian...’
211. EVATT TO MAKIN: 25 April 1946; ‘Cablegram E11 LONDON, 25 April 1946, 6.05 p.m. SECRET IMMEDIATE Reference telegrams A.8 [1] and ACJ.5 and 6. [2] Allied Council for Japan. After considering these matters as a whole I have formed the following views- 1. Procedure for instructions to Ball. The agreed arrangement set out in telegram 118...’
212. REPORT BY MELVILLE: 26 April 1946; ‘Extracts 26 April 1946 REPORT ON THE INAUGURAL MEETING OF THE GOVERNORS OF THE WORLD FUND AND BANK HELD AT SAVANNAH, U.S.A. FROM 8TH TO 18TH MARCH, 1946 PART I-GENERAL COMMENTS PART II-THE PROCEEDINGS AT THE INAUGURAL MEETING Part I-General Comments Recent developments 1. Since the publication of my review...’
213. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 26 April 1946; ‘PMM(46) 5th Meeting LONDON, 26 April 1946, 11 a.m. TOP SECRET Military Bases in the Pacific 1. Ministers had before them a memorandum prepared in the Foreign Office (P.M.M.(46)9) as the result of the discussion at the Third Meeting [1], setting out the suggested terms of a communication to be...’
214. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO EVATT: 26 April 1946; ‘NEW YORK, 26 April 1946, 3 p.m. Cablegram UN86 TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE Security 51. 1. After conference with Bonnet and Lange, Hodgson presented the following draft to the Security Council this morning. [1] Begins:- The attention of the Security Council has been drawn to the situation in Spain by...’
215. EVATT TO FORDE: 26 April 1946; ‘Cablegram E13 LONDON, 26 April 1946, 5.38 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Your A.19. [1] Course you propose seems correct one but feel facts must be ascertained. An investigation should take place at an early date and I suggest that Judge Kirby be sent immediately to Batavia for this purpose. If he...’
216. BALL TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 26 April 1946; ‘Cablegram ACJ5 TOKYO, 26 April 1946, 5.20 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET As reported in my ACJ.4 [2] the intransigence of Marquat on procedural questions at the first Council Meeting forced the U.S.S.R., China and the B.C.O.M. members to unite in efforts to preserve the Council’s rights. Though the Council debate...’
217. HOOD TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 27 April 1946; ‘Cablegram N23 LONDON, 27 April 1946, 3 p.m. SECRET IMPORTANT Indonesia, my telegram N.21. [1] 1. Information from Java and the Hague seem to contradict earlier hopes that a really satisfactory solution of the Indonesian problem was in sight. [2] you may already have received reports from Batavia regarding the...’
218. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 28 April 1946; ‘PMM(46) 6th Meeting (extracts) LONDON, 28 April 1946, 2 p.m. TOP SECRET [matter omitted] Disposal of Italian Colonies 3. The Meeting then discussed the attitude to be taken at the Council of Foreign Ministers regarding the disposal of the Italian Colonies. They had before them a memorandum by the Secretary...’
219. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HOOD: 29 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 284 CANBERRA, 29 April 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET Your 268 and 275. [1] Regional Organisation in the Pacific. 1. Departmental proposals on Organisation of South Seas Commission suggested four components namely-Commission proper, Secretariat, Special Research Bodies, Periodic South Seas Conference. The last might consist of nominees of international organisations and...’
220. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO BROOKES: 29 April 1946; ‘Cablegram 26 CANBERRA, 29 April 1946 SECRET Please request the Commanding Officer, Allied Forces, Java (1) to convey to responsible Indonesian leaders in whatever way he thinks most suitable, and in the strongest possible terms the extremely grave view which the Commonwealth Government takes of the murder of Australians [1]...’
221. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 29 April 1946; ‘PMM(46) 7th Meeting LONDON, 29 April 1946, 3.30 p.m. TOP SECRET TRUSTEESHIP Draft Agreements for United Kingdom Mandated Territories in Africa The Meeting had before it a memorandum (P.M.M.(46)12) outlining the background of the United Kingdom Government’s proposals for placing Tanganyika, British Togoland and the Cameroons under trusteeship. MR. CREECH...’
222. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO EVATT: 29 April 1946; ‘Cablegram UN88 NEW YORK, 29 April 1946, 8.38 p.m. TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE Security 52. 1. The Security Council today passed the Australian resolution on Spain [1] with slight amendments and appointed, Australia, Brazil, China, France and Poland to the sub-committee, Australia being nominated as chairman. The sub-committee met immediately...’
223. REPORT BY WALKER: 30 April 1946; ‘Extracts PARIS, 30 April 1946 INTER-ALLIED REPARATIONS AGENCY-SECOND SESSION Supplementary Report by the Australian Delegate on Patents and industrial Processes In my report on the First Session of the Assembly, paragraphs 28 to 33 [1], I dealt with the establishment by the Assembly of a Committee on Industrial, Technical, Scientific,...’
224. FORDE TO CHIFLEY: 1 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 2361 CANBERRA, 1 May 1946 Have received following cable from Moore in reply to my enquiry as to the progress of the late Senator Keane’s negotiations. [1] Begins: ‘The Lend Lease and Reciprocal Lend Lease negotiations had reached critical and concluding stages. Top level negotiator should not been [2]...’
225. NOTE BY COOMBS OF DISCUSSION WITH UNITED KINGDOM TREASURY OFFICIALS: 1 May 1946; ‘LONDON, 1 May 1946 [1] INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND Freedom to vary Exchange Rate Melville states that in his opinion the chief danger to Australia from membership of the Fund would be that our freedom to depreciate may be too rigidly restricted. [2] I discussed this with the United Kingdom officials...’
226. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO EVATT: 1 May 1946; ‘Cablegram UN97 NEW YORK, 1 May 1946, 7.21 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET SECURITY 56. 1. The Spanish Sub-Committee held a useful private organizational session this afternoon. The Secretariat had prepared a synopsis of communications received from non-Governmental sources and arrangements were made for a further study of the facts...’
227. CHIFLEY AND EVATT TO FORDE: 1 May 1946; ‘Cablegram E19 LONDON, 1 May 1946, 2.10 p.m. TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE 1. PACIFIC. Discussions on the Pacific have been satisfactory and our general point of view on bases as adopted by Cabinet in Australia has been accepted by the United Kingdom Government. This is a great advance on the...’
228. EVATT TO HASLUCK: 2 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 13 LONDON, 2 May 1946, 8 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Your United Nations 92 [1] and 97. [2] 1. I am greatly disturbed by your reports on Spanish sub- committee. By proceeding along the lines you indicate a fiasco may well be made of an enquiry which is important in...’
229. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 3 May 1946; ‘PMM(46) 11th Meeting LONDON, 3 May 1946, 11 a.m. TOP SECRET Military Bases in the Pacific: Proposed Cession of Tarawa I. MR. ATTLEE said that Mr. Bevin had had some conversation in Paris with the United States Secretary of State on the general question of bases in the Pacific. A...’
230. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 3 May 1946; ‘PMM(46) 11th Meeting, Confidential Annex LONDON, 3 May 1946 TOP SECRET CONFIDENTIAL ANNEX THE Meeting had before them a note by the Secretaries (P.M.M.(46)19) to which was annexed- (i) a note on United Kingdom arrangements for research and development work on atomic energy; (ii) a note on the proposals for...’
231. NOTE BY ATTLEE FOR MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 4 May 1946; ‘PMM(46)22 LONDON, 4 May 1946 TOP SECRET UNITED STATES’ REQUEST FOR BASES I circulate herewith a message, dated the 2nd May, which I have received from the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs in Paris. I shall be glad if this can be regarded as of special secrecy. As I...’
232. HOOD TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 5 May 1946; ‘Cablegram League 8 (extract) LONDON, 5 May 1946, 4.11 p.m. SECRET League of Nations. 1. Your No. 296. [1] At the concluding session of the Assembly 18th April all resolutions proposed by both Committees were unanimously adopted and the League was declared dissolved, subject to liquidation measures, with effect from...’
233. DUNK TO EVATT: 6 May 1946; ‘Cablegram A57 CANBERRA, 6 May 1946 SECRET Commerce propose establish trade representation Ceylon. In view of (a) extension local legislative autonomy recommended by Soulbury Commission [1] which will probably be followed by Dominion status and, (b) the strong separationist movement in Ceylon. I feel that Australian Government should be represented...’
234. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO LEGATION IN WASHINGTON: 6 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 670 CANBERRA, 6 May 1946 SECRET Trade and Employment Proposals. 1. United States document on Procedure dated 6th February [1] suggested that the Government of each country should transmit to the Government of each other country from which it wishes to receive tariff concessions statements setting forth (1) a...’
235. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 6 May 1946; ‘PMM(46) 12th Meeting (extract) LONDON, 6 May 1946, 3.30 p.m. TOP SECRET Military Bases in the Pacific (Previous References: P.M.M.(46) 5th Meeting, Minute 1 [1], and P.M.M.(46) 11th Meeting, Minute 1. [2]) 1. The Meeting had before them a note by the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (P.M.M.(46)22) [3]...’
236. BALL TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 6 May 1946; ‘Cablegram ACJ9 TOKYO, 6 May 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET Critical food shortage seems certain to develop in urban areas in Japan from now until the end of September. As acknowledged by SCAP representative at last Council meeting [1] the cause is not over all deficiency of home production but excessive consumption...’
237. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO EVATT: 8 May 1946; ‘Cablegram UN109 NEW YORK, 8 May 1946, 6.29 p.m. IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Security 64. 1. Gromyko was absent and no further information additional to the Iranian Ambassador’s letter of 6th May [1] had been received when the Security Council met this afternoon. The United States immediately presented a resolution stating...’
238. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EVATT: 9 May 1946; ‘Cablegram A72 CANBERRA, 9 May 1946 Reference ACJ9. [1] Following for your consideration in relation to Macmahon Ball’s request for instructions. 1. Ball proposes to raise food question again. Atcheson’s position is that particular question of food imports is outside Council’s competence vide ACJ8. Atcheson may not take same position...’
239. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 9 May 1946; ‘Circular cablegram D452 LONDON, 9 May 1946, 10.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET My telegram G. No.29. [1] Commercial Policy. We have now received the United States recommendations as to revised programme for international discussions. These recommendations are designed to deal with difficulties arising from delays in passage of the United States...’
240. BROOKES TO DUNK: 11 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 76 BATAVIA, 11 May 1946,10.20 a.m. MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL Further my telegram 73. [1] Your telegram 34. [2] 1. You will appreciate that the idea that the General Officer Commanding expressed in paragraph 4 of my telegram 73 was tentative only and given prior to consultation...’
241. BROOKES TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 12 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 79 BATAVIA, 12 May 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET Your telegram 46 [1] and my telegram 60 giving text of G.O.C. letter to Sjahrir. Below is Sjahrir’s reply which was handed to Mansergh this morning. Begins. To Lieutenant General E. C. Mansergh, C.B.E., M.C. Headquarters AFNEI. In reply to your letter...’
242. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO MOUNTBATTEN: 13 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 10 CANBERRA, 13 May 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET The murder in Java on 17th April of three Australian officers Squadron Leader F. G. Birchall, Captain A. N. MacKenzie, [and] Flight Lieutenant H. M. McDonald [1] has occasioned great concern to the Australian Government. While we fully appreciate the...’
243. EVATT [1] TO AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS: 13 May 1946; ‘Cablegram New York 20 LONDON, 13 May 1946, 4.54 p.m. SECRET Reference your UN109. [2] The form and manner of your protest were not in accord with the Minister’s instructions. It was quite proper to protest at the sulky and improper treatment of the Security Council by Gromyko. It was...’
244. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON: 14 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 206 CANBERRA, 14 May 1946 IMMEDIATE Your Circular D No.452. [1] 1. We agree fully with you that it is unwise to be drawn into any commitment on the general principles of a future trade charter ahead of detailed tariff negotiations. We think therefore that:- (a) Discussion at the...’
245. BROOKES TO DUNK: 14 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 81 BATAVIA, 14 May 1946 TOP SECRET My telegram 38 [1] and No.1 from London to Batavia expressing the views of the Minister [2], I respectfully submit the following background information and suggestions as to policy. Background. 1. It is becoming more apparent every day that the Dutch community...’
246. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EVATT AND AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS: 15 May 1946; ‘Cablegrams A92, UNY52 CANBERRA, 15 May 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET United Nations No. 122. [1] 1. We attach the utmost importance to the election of Australia to the Economic and Employment Commission. If not elected, we should be represented on at least one of its sub-commissions. 2. As it is impossible...’
247. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO EVATT: 15 May 1946; ‘Cablegram UN133 NEW YORK, 15 May 1946, 7.09 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET The following formal communication addressed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs was received today from the Secretary-General. Begins-In accordance with the resolution of the Economic and Social Council of 15th February an International Health Conference will open on 19th...’
248. BALL TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 16 May 1946; ‘Cablegram ACJ10 TOKYO, 16 May 1946, 8 a.m. SBCRET Fourth meeting of the Allied Council held on May 15th was interesting in two respects. 1. Atcheson made explicit his determination to permit the Council nothing more than to give formal approval of MacArthur’s acts. 2. He epitomized the prevailing American...’
249. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EVATT: 17 May 1946; ‘Cablegram A100 CANBERRA, 17 May 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET F.E.C. Basic Policy. [1] 1. Please see our telegram to Washington repeated to you. [2] Steering Committee on 16th April postponed consideration of Basic Policy Paper at request of U.S.S.R. member. Our F.E.C. delegation requested our views on United States amendments and...’
250. BRIDGLAND TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 17 May 1946; ‘Memorandum 291 LONDON, 17 May 1946 On 14th May a meeting was held at the Foreign Office between representatives of the Dominions and the United Kingdom Foreign and Dominions Offices to discuss the supply of information by the United Kingdom to the Dominion Governments. It was revealed that owing to...’
251. BROOKES TO DUNK: 18 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 90 BATAVIA, 18 May 1946, 4 p.m. TOP SECRET IMMEDIATE Part I. JAVA. 1. Sjahrir for the first time against his previously declared policy which he has stubbornly maintained against pressure from the Indonesians is afraid that the time will come when he and his Government will have to...’
252. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 18 May 1946; ‘Cablegram D508 LONDON, 18 May 1946, 6.05 p.m. TOP SECRET IMPORTANT United States Government have communicated to the United Kingdom, Soviet and Chinese Governments, for their comments, a draft treaty on the disarmament and demilitarisation of Japan, the text of which is contained in my immediately following telegram. [1] It...’
253. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 18 May 1946; ‘Cablegram D509 LONDON, 18 May 1946, 12.18 p.m. TOP SECRET My immediately preceding telegram. [1] The following is the text of the United States Draft Treaty on disarmament and demilitarisation of Japan. Begins. PREAMBLE: The Governments of the United Kingdom, China, the Union of Soviet Socialist republics, and the United...’
254. EVATT TO FRASER: 20 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 2 (extract) LONDON, 20 May 1946 IMMEDIATE PERSONAL [matter omitted] [1] 3. The recent Conference of the four Foreign Ministers has been disturbing with the constant jockeying for position by the Great Powers reflected in the attempted striking of bargains without much regard to justice or to the wishes...’
255. EVATT [1] TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 May 1946; ‘Cablegram E48 LONDON, 20 May 1946, 8.20 p.m. IMMEDIATE Reference D.508. [2] The Minister desires that there be no comment made to the United Kingdom Government. At the same time he would like to have Sir Frederic Eggleston’s comments. [3] His own first reaction is that it is not in...’
256. EVATT TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 May 1946; ‘Cablegram E49 LONDON, 20 May 1946, 8.20 p.m. SECRET Your Arco F.E.C. [1] Basic Policy should be certainly considered by Committee. The delay is inexcusable since the Committee, chaired by the Minister dealt with the matter in November. [2] _ 1 Document 249. 2 On 4 June the F.E.C. Steering...’
257. EVATT TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 May 1946; ‘Cablegram E52 LONDON, 20 May 1946, 8.20 p.m. SECRET 1. My immediately following telegram [1] contains the text of a letter sent to Lord Addison, concerning the South Seas Commission. 2. Invitations accompanied by provisional Agenda should be sent to all Governments concerned not later than the third week in...’
258. EVATT TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 May 1946; ‘Cablegram E53 LONDON, 20 May 1946, 8.20 p.m. SECRET Reference my immediately preceding telegram. [1] The following is the text. Begins. Since our 11th meeting [2] at which there was general agreement with our proposals for a South Seas Commission, there have been some discussions between representatives of the Colonial...’
259. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 20 May 1946; ‘Cablegram E58 (extract) LONDON, 20 May 1946, 8.15 p.m. IMMEDIATE PERSONAL SECRET 1. I have just returned from Paris where I had talks with Byrnes, Molotov, Bidault and Bevin. 2. To each of these and in a Press statement I stated that the real purpose of the Peace Conference could...’
260. FORDE TO MOUNTBATTEN: 21 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 11 CANBERRA, 21 May 1946 SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE Australian Government much appreciates your concurrence in attachment to your Command of Judge Kirby in connection with investigation of circumstances surrounding murder of three Australians in Java. [1] In accordance with your suggestion, action has been taken through Australian Representative, Batavia,...’
261. MELVILLE TO DEDMAN: 21 May 1946; ‘Letter 21 May 1946, 1. When I was in Canberra, you asked me to send you a note setting out the worst that can happen to Australia if we do not join the International Monetary Fund. 2. The most obvious and probable penalties for not joining are covered by paragraphs...’
262. BROOKES TO DUNK: 21 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 93 BATAVIA, 21 May 1946 TOP SECRET Van Mook gave Sjahrir the Dutch modified proposals which are described as a protocol. 2. Van Mook has not informed any of the British authorities what is contained in the protocol. He gave rather a frank, off the record, talk to the...’
263. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 21 May 1946; ‘Cablegram D520 LONDON, 21 May 1946, 2.10 p.m. SECRET My telegrams D. Nos 499 and 500 [1], Commercial Policy. We have now heard from United States Embassy in London in reply the views set out in my telegram D. No.500. The United States Government agree with us on all points...’
264. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 22 May 1946; ‘PMM(46) 17th Meeting (extract) LONDON, 22 May 1946, 11 a.m. TOP SECRET [matter omitted] South-West Africa 2. FIELD-MARSHAL SMUTS said that he wished to take this opportunity of discussing with representatives of other parts of the Commonwealth the proposals of the South African Government for the future of South-West Africa....’
265. MINUTES OF MEETING OF PRIME MINISTERS: 22 May 1946; ‘PMM(46) 18th Meeting (extracts) LONDON, 22 May 1946, 3.45 p.m. TOP SECRET [matter omitted] United Kingdom Defence Obligations 2. The meeting had before them a memorandum by Lord Addison (P.M.M.(46)31) summarising the present military and financial commitments of the United Kingdom. The memorandum showed that, in order to carry out...’
266. ADDISON TO EVATT: 22 May 1946; ‘Letter LONDON, 22 May 1946 SECRET Thank you for your letter of the 20th May [1] setting out a suggested procedure for making progress with the proposals for a South Seas Commission, which were accepted in principle at the 11th P.M.M. meeting. I have now been able to consult with...’
267. LEGATION IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 23 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 647 WASHINGTON, 23 May 1946, 2.43 p.m. IMMEDIATE FAO CONFERENCE. The new food organization. [1] 1. There may be a sharp division on the functions of the new body. The French, supported by India, UNRRA and other claimants, are proposing that all food supplies surplus to rationed domestic needs...’
268. EVATT TO ADDISON: 24 May 1946; ‘Letter LONDON, 24 May 1946 I have received your letter of the 17th May and have also seen a note from your secretary regarding the assembling date of the British contingent of observers for the revision of the Greek electoral registers. [1] Australia has a very great interest in Greece...’
269. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO BULCOCK: 25 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 783 CANBERRA, 25 May 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET F.A.0. CONFERENCE With reference proposed establishment of International Emergency Food Council [1] you may support proposals in principle if sponsored by United Kingdom. Support is conditional upon Australia retaining its freedom of action in regard to contracts with the United Kingdom and...’
270. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 25 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 359 LONDON, 25 May 1946, 4.46 p.m. SECRET PERSONAL 1. At the Meeting yesterday [1] the text of final communiquereports of which you will have seen was agreed. 2. The main discussion was on proposed Commercial talks and proposal that emerged was that there be Commonwealth talks in the...’
271. LEGATION IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 27 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 663 WASHINGTON, 27 May 1946, 10.48 a.m. SECRET Your 783, F.A.0. Conference. [1] 1. Our 662 [2] reports results on the new organization and is not inconsistent with your 783. On production and export policies your general instructions are being followed. 2. On membership of the Central Committee we...’
272. EVATT TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 27 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 671 WASHINGTON, 27 May 1946,11.37 p.m. URGENT MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET This is in answer to your UNY65 and UNY66. [1] It is much too premature to plan for resumption of relations with so-called Japanese Trade Union Movement and Labour Organisations in other countries and International Labour Organisations generally. The...’
273. DUNK TO EVATT: 28 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 71 CANBERRA, 28 May 1946 TOP SECRET IMMEDIATE PERSONAL Although I have carried out your instructions to leave Brookes in Batavia for the time being, I feel bound to advise that I am greatly disturbed at Brookes’ recent cables and fear that unless he is given a period of...’
274. CHIFLEY TO EVATT: 28 May 1946; ‘Letter (extract) CANBERRA, 28 May 1946 PERSONAL & CONFIDENTIAL [matter omitted] [1] While in Japan [2] I had a long talk with MacArthur, and I also took the opportunity of having a talk with Macmahon Ball. it is quite clear that MacArthur does not like these advisory bodies, including the...’
275. BULCOCK TO SCULLY: 28 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 675 WASHINGTON, 28 May 1946, 6.24 p.m. SECRET The F.A.0. Conference terminated yesterday with all nations represented in complete accord with decisions subject to the approval of the Governments [1] I am forwarding copies of reports and comments. Our chief mission was to present Australia’s case, modify resolutions to...’
276. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 28 May 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 166 NEW YORK, 28 May 1946, 8.47 p.m. SECRET Security 92. 1. Dr. Evatt presided at meetings of the Spanish Committee yesterday and today. Yesterday’s meeting was devoted to continuation of the public questioning of the Spanish Republican Prime Minister, Giral. Today’s private meeting was devoted to...’
277. BRIGDEN TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 28 May 1946; ‘Memorandum (extract) WASHINGTON, 28 May 1946 THE INTERNATIONAL EMERGENCY FOOD COUNCIL REPORT NO. 1 This new body, to succeed the Combined Food Board and its Committees, is to be called into existence as soon as possible, probably next week. The procedure is to be for the C.F.B. to meet, having...’
278. CHIFLEY TO FRASER: 29 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 148 CANBERRA, 29 May 1946 SECRET South Seas Commission. 1. You will doubtless have had a report from your representative in London about the proposed conference in Australia to establish the South Seas Commission. We look forward to close co-operation with you in the planning and preliminary work. In...’
279. EVATT TO DUNK: 29 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 678 WASHINGTON, 29 May 1946 TOP SECRET PERSONAL Your UNY70 [1] and UNY71. [2] I must say I do not feel much sympathy with the telegram UNY71. I think that Brookes should remain with Kirby during latter’s assignment. I understand that Brookes was appointed on your own decision. He...’
280. BALL TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 29 May 1946; ‘Cablegram ACJ15 (extract) TOKYO, 29 May 1946, 3.55 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET [matter omitted] [1] Item five was S.C.A.P.’s request for comments on the Japanese Government’s proposals for rural land reform. Derevyanko criticised these proposals very strongly. The full text of his statement will be sent by bag when available. I...’
281. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EVATT: 30 May 1946; ‘Cablegram A1 CANBERRA, 30 May 1946 Following are Sir Frederic Eggleston’s comments on United States draft treaty on disarmament and demilitarisation of Japan. [1] (1) There is no specific reference in Potsdam Declaration of July 26, 1945 [2], to a treaty controlling the disarmament of Japan nor is there any...’
282. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EVATT: 30 May 1946; ‘Cablegram A4 CANBERRA, 30 May 1946 IMMEDIATE The following are departmental comments on the draft treaty on disarmament and demilitarisation of Japan. [A]. Re Sir F. Eggleston’s comments. [1] Para 1. The provisions of the Potsdam Declaration which relate to disarmament of Japan (paragraphs 7,9, 11 and 12) refer only...’
283. BALL TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 30 May 1946; ‘Cablegram ACJ16 TOKYO, 30 May 1946, 3.30 p.m. SECRET IMMEDIATE Yesterday’s Council meeting showed marked progress on [previous meeting in so far as it was first occasion on which] [1] MacArthur had asked the Council’s advice. Atcheson indicated a number of new questions on which MacArthur intends to ask the...’
284. EVATT TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 30 May 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 171 NEW YORK, 30 May 1946, 8.04 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET Atomic 6. After consultation with and full agreement of Professor Oliphant and Dr. Briggs, we propose to proceed upon the following general basis in connection with atomic energy, having regard to the unanimous decision of...’
285. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO KUSKIE: 31 May 1946; ‘Cablegram 216 CANBERRA, 31 May 1946 SECRET South Seas Commission. Please see Prime Minister’s telegram to the Prime Minister of New Zealand. [1] Following is a very preliminary draft agenda. Please discuss this informally in detail with the Wellington Secretariat. We would like to know the views of New Zealand...’
286. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EVATT: 31 May 1946; ‘Cablegram A5 CANBERRA, 31 May 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET 1. Please see No. 277 to Canberra [1] repeated Washington No- 5 [from] Copland. 2. We would suggest following instructions to Copland: (a) it seems desirable to us that UNRRA’s activities in China should not be prolonged though we can foresee that...’
287. ADDISON TO AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT: 31 May 1946; ‘Cablegram D555 LONDON, 31 May 1946, 1.15 p.m. SECRET Received 1 June 1946 Refugees. We have been giving further thought to the question of the form which the proposed new International Refugee Organisation should take. There seems to be five possibilities. (1) The new Organisation could have been an integral...’
288. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 1 June 1946; ‘Cablegram UN174 NEW YORK, 1 June 1946, 1.59 p.m. SECRET IMMEDIATE Security 94. 1. The Spanish Committee completed its report late last night reaching complete unanimity except on two points. Brazil reserved its position on the principle involved in one of the recommendations and Poland entered a reservation regarding a...’
289. SHARWOOD TO DUNK: 3 June 1946; ‘Memorandum LONDON, 3 June 1946 Reparations-Shipping This memorandum is to confirm the telegram sent to you advising that the ship ‘ADRIAN’ had been finally awarded to Australia by the Assembly of I.A.R.A. [1] When the vote was taken on the complete recommendations of the Shipping Committee to the Assembly the...’
290. HOOD TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 4 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 394 LONDON, 4 June 1946, 8 p.m. SECRET My telegram 368. [1] Refugee Committee. The Rapporteur’s Report was adopted for forwarding to the Economic and Social Council on 1st June, when the Special Committee adjourned in accordance with paragraph 8 on the Economic and Social Council resolution of the...’
291. SJAHRIR TO BROOKES: 5 June 1946; ‘Letter DJAKARTA, 5 June 1946 I am so sorry that you are leaving us. I hope that there is still a chance that you will come back after having taken some rest. At the cabinet meeting in the interior we discussed the latest Dutch proposals [1] and we agreed to...’
292. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 5 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 723 WASHINGTON, 5 June 1946, 8.20 p.m. MOST SECRET For the Prime Minister alone. 1. There have been several further alterations of draft agreement on Lend Lease and I am arranging that you should receive revised and completed document [1] together with comments by Moore on the alterations. All...’
293. LEGATION IN WASHINGTON TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 5 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 724 WASHINGTON, 5 June 1946, 9.09 p.m. SECRET FEC 115. 1. F.E.C. Meeting on 5th June. Dr Evatt represented Australia. 2. Paper on Aliens in Japan was adopted (text in separate cable). 3. The Soviet member said that tours of Japan by Emperor should be forbidden, because they were...’
294. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 5 June 1946; ‘Cablegram Y1452 (extracts) WASHINGTON, 5 June 1946, 9.32 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET 1. I have been in touch with Moore and it is proposed that I sign agreement as set out in paragraph two. [1] 2. Full agreement as now recommended by Moore is as follows: Begins- Agreement Between the...’
295. EVATT TO DAVILA [1]: 6 June 1946; ‘Letter NEW YORK, 6 June 1946 Since I have been in New York as Australian Representative on the Security Council I have noted with satisfaction the interest shown by the Chilean Delegation, in the discussions of the Economic and Social Council on the subject of the Economic and Employment Commission....’
296. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 7 June 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 284 NEW YORK, 7 June 1946, 5.39 p.m. SECRET IMMEDIATE Security 96. 1. In presenting the report of Spanish Sub-Committee to the Council yesterday afternoon [1], the Minister spoke on behalf of all its members. After viewing the Sub-Committee’s work, and presenting its findings on the facts,...’
297. BROOKES TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 8 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 112 BATAVIA, 8 June 1946 TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE Further to my telegram 102. [1] Sjahrir has returned from Central Java with the bulk of his Cabinet. I went to say goodbye to Sjahrir and he asked me to convey the request set out below to the Australian Government....’
298. BALL TO EVATT: 1946; ‘Cablegram Following for the Minister from Macmahon Ball 2, SECRET At the Council on June 12th S.C.A.P. will ask for further advice on the Japanese Government’s plan for rural reform. Mindful of the present form this plan is evasive and unsatisfactory and calculated to defeat the main purpose of rural...’
299. KIRBY TO EVATT AND DUNK: 9 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 114 BATAVIA, 9 June 1946 TOP SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE PART I Reference telegram 112 [1] from Brookes and letter referred to in that telegram. [2] Sjahrir is proceeding with preparation of counter proposals [3] according to draft set out in Brookes’ telegram 113, but has not yet presented them....’
300. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO BRIDGLAND: 10 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 378 CANBERRA, 10 June 1946 Your memorandum 291 [1] raises important issues. These telegrams are essential to our work as they provide us by the quickest means with a range of background information from British posts all over the world which we cannot yet hope to do more than...’
301. CHIFLEY TO EVATT: 11 June 1946; ‘Cablegram A35 CANBERRA, 11 June 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET 1. Reference your United Nations No.171 and Atomic No.6 [1], I am furnishing my provisional personal observations on your cablegram. It has only been possible to consult the Defence Committee so far, and I shall submit your cablegram and my...’
302. OFFICER TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 11 June 1946; ‘Cablegram Hague 2 THE HAGUE, 11 June 1946, 2.20 p.m. SECRET My telegram Hague 1. [1] Both Her Majesty and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, on whom I called on the A were most cordial. 2. The Minister for Foreign Affairs referred to the question of Dutch Ships held up...’
303. EVATT TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 11 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 751 WASHINGTON, 11 June 1946 Regarding D.O. telegram D.566 [1], following are comments on message: 1. There is overwhelming cause for consulting actual belligerents at conference rather than remitting discussions to United Nations majority of whom had nothing to do with winning war and some of whom were unfriendly...’
304. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EVATT: 12 June 1946; ‘CANBERRA, 12 June 1946, 8.30 a.m. Cablegram A39 TOP SECRET PERSONAL Batavia. Reference our telegram A36. [1] 1. Brookes has arrived in Canberra where he will stay few days before going on recuperative leave. He brought with him personal letter from Sjahrir and Sjahrir’s draft counter proposals which have been...’
305. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 12 June 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 189 NEW YORK, 12 June 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET Atomic 8. 1. Atomic Energy Commission will have its opening meeting on Friday. It is proposed that the United States representative, Bernard Baruch, as provisional chairman will make the opening statement on United States policy. This will give us...’
306. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 12 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 758 NEW YORK, 12 June 1946, 5.28 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Regarding use of bases I have had conversation with Byrnes but this was purely of provisional and exploratory character. I told him position we had consistently maintained, and that if bases were to be maintained and used by United...’
307. CABINET SUBMISSION BY CHIFLEY: 13 June 1946; ‘Agendum 1198 CANBERRA, 13 June 1946 AUSTRALIAN DIPLOMATIC REPRESENTATION CREATION OF RANK OF AMBASSADOR Introductory Dr. Evatt has suggested that consideration be given to the creation of a post of Ambassador to the United States of America, in lieu of the present rank of Minister. He proposes this as a...’
308. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO FORSYTH [1]: 13 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 892 CANBERRA, 13 June 1946 South Seas Commission. Telegram just received from Australian High Commissioner, Wellington advises that he discussed with Laking [2] on 12th June agenda for conference. [3] While New Zealand would be happy to accept Australian draft they would prefer to keep the agenda as general...’
309. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 13 June 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 194 NEW YORK, 13 June 1946, 9.36 a.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Atomic 9. Reference A.35. [1] Your helpful comments on our cable have been provisionally studied by Oliphant and Briggs. In view of further discussions by Oliphant and Briggs with American, British, French and Canadian atomic scientists and...’
310. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 13 June 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 196 NEW YORK, 13 June 1946, 5.51 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Security 99. 1. At the opening of Meeting of the Security Council today Dr. Evatt with approval of all members of the Sub-Committee (Australia, Brazil, China, France, Poland) moved that Council adopt Sub-Committee’s three recommendations [1] subject...’
311. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT TO ADDISON: 14 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 243 CANBERRA, 14 June 1946 IMMEDIATE I. As you are no doubt aware, on 17th April 1946 three Australian officers attached to Australian War Crimes Section of S.E.A.C. were murdered in Java. [1] Commonwealth Government through General Mansergh made strong protest to Sjahrir. Indonesians subsequently arrested two Japanese and...’
312. EVATT TO CHIFLEY AND MAKIN: 14 June 1946; ‘Cablegram [UN200] WASHINGTON, 14 June 1946, 12.11 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET Following are essential parts of Baruch’s opening address to be made to Atomic Energy Commission this morning. ‘Terror’ is not enough to inhibit the use of the Atomic Bomb. The terror created by weapons has never stopped man from...’
313. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 14 June 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 202 NEW YORK, 14 June 1946, 6.41 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Atomic 10. 1. The greater part of this morning’s meeting of the Atomic Energy Commission was occupied by Baruch’s statement. [1] The Commission then adopted the principle of rotation of Chairmanship and Dr. Evatt was invited to...’
314. DUNK TO EVATT: 18 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 917 CANBERRA, 18 June 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET In course of informal conversation concerning South Seas Commission Minter has shown interest in the scheme and it seems possible he might if approached be prepared to make favourable recommendations to the State Department regarding United States participation. Glad to know urgently...’
315. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 18 June 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 204 NEW YORK, 18 June 1946, 12.12 a.m. SECRET IMMEDIATE Security 101. 1. Cadogan opened discussion of the Spanish question in the Security Council this afternoon stating that the United Kingdom Government regarded the Franco Regime as the opposite of a Democratic regime and as a Regime...’
316. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 18 June 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 210 NEW YORK, 18 June 1946, 9.32 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Security 102. 1. At the Council meeting this afternoon the United States representative reiterated support for the resolution of the sub- committee [1] but announced he would have supported the United Kingdom amendment [2] if it had...’
317. FORSYTH TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 19 June 1946; ‘Cablegram CGA324 NEW YORK, 19 June 1946, 6.09 p.m. SECRET Trusteeship. Your 873. [1] 1. The Minister desires Eggleston and Bailey to consider the draft of the trusteeship agreement [2] and forward their views as to the form and necessary contents. The Minister’s view is that the document should be...’
318. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 19 June 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 213 NEW YORK, 19 June 1946, 7.39 p.m. SECRET Atomic II. 1. Dr. Evatt presiding over to-day’s meeting of the Atomic Energy Commission proposed that as the starting point in the Commission’s deliberations two days should be devoted to a general discussion of the problems before the...’
319. FORSYTH TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 20 June 1946; ‘Cablegram CGA326 NEW YORK, 20 June 1946, 4.01 p.m. SECRET South Seas Commission. Your 892. [1] 1. Agenda. General outline as suggested by New Zealand would be acceptable. At a later stage, however, it will be necessary to agree with New Zealand on a more detailed list of items so...’
320. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO KIRBY: 21 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 60 CANBERRA 21 June 1946, IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET PERSONAL Further to our telegram 55. [1] Brookes has gone on recuperative leave. 2. We note from last sentence of paragraph 13 of your telegram rig that Sjahrir may be under the impression that an Indonesian request for Australian action in...’
321. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO BULCOCK: 21 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 947 CANBERRA, 21 June 1946 IMMEDIATE F.A.0. and I.E.F.C. 1. Approval given our seeking membership Central Committee. [1] It is proposed Garside be our nominee but this to be confirmed. 2. We should definitely have seats on Committees for Dairy Products, Fats and Oils, Meat and Meat products, Sugar,...’
322. HODGSON TO EVATT: 21 June 1946; ‘Cablegram P3 PARIS, 21 June 1946, 1 p.m. SECRET South Seas Commission. Head of Pacific Division informed me this morning that after consultation with Ministry of Colonies France would be glad to be associated with Commission though in their formal reply they would maintain the point raised by Mr. Bidault...’
323. FORSYTH TO BALL: 21 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 826 WASHINGTON, 21 June 1946 IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET 1. Your telegram dealing with Japanese Constitution [1] was relayed from Canberra and Minister (Dr. Evatt) has instructed me to cable you as follows:- Minister spoke to Acheson of State Department shortly after receipt of your message. Acheson said he would...’
324. EVATT TO CHIFLEY: 21 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 825 WASHINGTON, 21 June 1946, 10.12 P.M. TOP SECRET I had a long and satisfactory talk with the President yesterday. Acheson of the State Department was present. First of all the President indicated his keenness as to the raising of the status of the two Legations to that of...’
325. EVATT TO ADDISON: 23 June 1946; ‘Cablegram.103 WASHINGTON, 23 June 1946, 8.39 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET The Far Eastern Commission is considering the question of the new Japanese Constitution. Two matters involved are (a) statement of principles which should govern the new Constitution (this is set out in an American paper as amended by the F.E.C. Committee)...’
326. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 24 June 1946; ‘Cablegram UN224 NEW YORK, 24 June 1946, 10.36 p.m. SECRET Security 104. 1. At the meeting of the Security Council this afternoon [Poland] [1] presented an amended resolution to that originally proposed calling for breach of diplomatic relations. [2] The resolution as amended read:- The Security Council declares that the...’
327. DUNK TO MILLS: 25 June 1946; ‘Letter CANBERRA, 25 June 1946 I refer to my memorandum UN46/Ed.1 of 20th June, referring to documents of the committees of the Preparatory Commission of UNESCO. [1] You will appreciate that in view of the preliminary work done by these committees various issues affecting policy in the field of international...’
328. BALL TO EVATT: 25 June 1946; ‘Cablegram Secret and Personal for the Minister 2 TOKYO, 25 June 1946 TOP SECRET Forsyth’s telegram of June 20th [1] only arrived 1600 hours June 24th. MacArthur had made an announcement on the constitution on June 22nd. Nevertheless I saw him this morning and he talked to me for nearly...’
329. EVATT TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 25 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 848 WASHINGTON, 25 June 1946, 3.37 p.m. MOST IMMEDIATE SECRET I propose this afternoon to make a statement to the Atomic Energy Commission outlining Australia’s views. After pointing out the urgency of the problem, the diverse interests which must be taken into consideration, and the need for a just...’
330. DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS TO HOOD: 26 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 418 CANBERRA, 26 June 1946 TOP SECRET INDONESIA Reference para 1 of your 4370 [1] To avoid possible misunderstanding, we wish to make it clear that letter given by Sjahrir to Brookes [2] was addressed to Brookes personally and did not contain specific request to Australian Government to raise...’
331. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 27 June 1946; ‘Cablegram UN228 NEW YORK, 27 June 1946, 7319 p.m. SECRET Security 106. 1. Despite strenuous efforts made by Dr. Evatt as Chairman to reconcile points of difference, Drafting Committee appointed at Monday’s meeting of Council [1] failed to reach agreed text. Poland, after first appearing ready to co-operate, later insisted...’
332. CHIFLEY TO EVATT: 28 June 1946; ‘Cablegram A71 CANBERRA, 28 June 1946 MOST IMMEDIATE TOP SECRET AND PERSONAL 1. Your No. 825 [1] relative to your discussion with President has been read with interest. 2. While it is realised that a strict treaty in regard to security in the Pacific may be difficult, it is suggested...’
333. CABINET SUBMISSION BY MAKIN: 28 June 1946; ‘Agendum 728A [CANBERRA, 28 June 1946] FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION The Food and Agriculture Organization is now becoming effectively established as an integral part of the new international machinery of the United Nations. The First Conference, to which Australia sent a delegation, was held in Quebec in the latter half...’
334. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 28 June 1946; ‘Cablegram United Nations 232 NEW YORK, 28 June 1946, 6.02 p.m. IMMEDIATE SECRET Atomic 12. 1. The Working Committee appointed by the Atomic Energy Commission last Tuesday held its first meeting this morning, Dr. Evatt presiding. The United States representative submitted a chart analyzing the area of agreement and disagreement...’
335. AUSTRALIAN DELEGATION, UNITED NATIONS, TO DEPARTMENT OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS: 28 June 1946; ‘Cablegram UN236 NEW YORK, 28 June 1946 Atomic No. 113. In addition to the summary given in telegram from Australian Legation Washington No. 848 [1] the following are the main points in statements at the meeting on 25th June by Delegates to the Atomic Energy Commission from France, Poland, Netherlands...’
336. DUNK TO EVATT: 30 June 1946; ‘Cablegram 983 CANBERRA, 30 June 1946 IMMEDIATE SECRET South Seas Commission. 1. Whilst it is not necessary pending indication of United States attitude to decide finally question whether Dutch should be invited to attend Conference, I feel following points should be brought to your attention. 2. As far as the...’

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Volume 9: January–June 1946

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