149 Evatt to Dixon

Your S.55. [1] Colonial Policy.

Your interview with Hull noted with interest.

Apart from our specific colonial interests, the course of the war in this theatre has demonstrated that the control or supervision of control over neighbouring Territories will be vital to the future security of Australia as well as to other Pacific countries; and we must have a full say in the determination of these questions. It seems to us that so far there is no clear understanding on practical application of principles; therefore any premature declaration on colonial policy may lead to misunderstanding and embarrassment. For these reasons you might inform Hull that our view is that it would be unwise to make any declaration whatever at this stage: of course I propose to discuss this question personally with you and him. [2]