237 Department of External Affairs to Ballard

You are well acquainted with our views and the dangers we anticipate if the decision of the Security Council is not carried out by both parties. Australian reputation is high with Indonesians and, therefore, we can help. You should not hesitate to act on your own initiative in any way which would assist the Indonesians in understanding the position and assisting the termination of hostilities. Meanwhile, we are doing what we can through the Secretary-General of the United Nations [1] and by direct communications. [2] In particular, inform Gani that question of withdrawal of forces can be first matter negotiated on. He might also ask Dutch to lend plane or give passage to Indonesian plane which can reach local commanders. Any delay in cessation by Indonesians will greatly damage their position at Security Council in the future if need arises to refer the matter again.