Wallis Island. Your telegram 71 of 3rd February transmitting
message for Sautot from de Gaulle [1] and reply from Sautot No.

189 of 27th March. [2] It is clear from the latter that resistance
on the part of the Islanders is most likely. We are of opinion
having regard to the fact that the Islands are of little economic
or political importance, that bringing them into the fold of Free
France would only result in added liability with little or no
corresponding asset. His Majesty's Government in the Commonwealth
of Australia feel that the proposed operation should therefore not
be encouraged unless some substantial advantage is likely to be
gained. We doubt the wisdom of the proposal as we feel that it
might very easily be used by Japan as an excuse for retaliatory
action against New Caledonia.

With regard to the proposal that an Australian warship should be
in the vicinity of these Islands at the time the proposed
expedition arrives His Majesty's Government in the Commonwealth of
Australia is not sympathetic to this request in view of the
position outlined above.

We therefore suggest this matter might be discussed with de Gaulle
to ascertain his views before we communicate with Sautot. In view
of proposed early despatch of military force from New Caledonia to
these Islands early reply would be appreciated.

FADDEN