Reference your 472. [1] New Caledonia.

Question of New Caledonia discussed by Cabinet yesterday and again
today [2] in light of resolution passed yesterday by Council of
New Caledonia that support will be given to National Committee in
London. Copy of this and resolution passed in Sydney by meeting of
French representatives have been sent to the United Kingdom
Government.

We are suggesting to Casey [3] on grounds of direct American
interest in establishment of landing ground at Noumea in trans-
Pacific air line to New Zealand, that United States Government
might be prepared to make a public declaration that the
maintenance of the status quo in respect of New Caledonia and
other French islands in Pacific must be respected.

In meantime, we are arranging for private interests as distinct
from direct Government interference, the political significance of
which you will appreciate, to endeavour without interference with
normal Japanese supplies to secure [sic] output of chrome and
nickel does not go to destinations where it can fall into enemy
hands.

Your suggestion relative despatch of representative to New
Caledonia has received consideration and we are arranging for an
official representative.

MENZIES