341 Evatt to Burton

Reference United States proposal for Conference.

Makin's apparent failure to explain to Marshall potent objections to the so called expert level of Conference confirms the necessity for written memorandum to be communicated to Marshall. My telegram to you (No- 4, paragraph 2) gave full reasons and United Kingdom telegram quoted by you in your telegram 6 [1] was to the same general effect. As Conference would consider general plan for organisation including voting I could not accept the position that Australia be represented except by Minister. Some other Governments may choose differently but at least each should be free to determine its own representation. Marshall could be told quite frankly that I personally would represent Australia, in view of my intimate and pioneer work on F.E.C. policy and vital importance of settlement to Australia. Marshall might be also reminded of two separate undertakings that Australia would be regarded by the United States of America as a party principal of the settlement. The fact that there are already some differences as to voting indicates the necessity of dealing with such problems at the point where such decisions must be made. Eggleston and Bailey could assist urgently in drafting memorandum.

I assume that general reply as to date has been given in writing by Makin; if not, this should also be drafted.