154 Department of External Affairs to Mr R. G. Casey, Minister to the United States

Information has been received from Bruce indicating that attack on Netherlands by Germany is believed in many quarters to be imminent [2], in which case position of Netherlands East Indies has to be considered in light of possible Japanese intervention there on ostensible ground of protecting her interests. It is probable British Ambassador, Washington [3], will receive instructions to discuss question with United States authorities view to ascertaining their attitude and possible action.

As question is vital to Australia, desire that you consult with Ambassador and associate yourself with any representations he makes. In this respect see views of President and principal advisers in May, 1939, vide cablegram 20 from Officer. [4]