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326 Department of External Affairs to Mr V. G. Bowden, Official Representative in Singapore

Cablegram 87 CANBERRA, 11 February 1942

SECRET MOST IMMEDIATE

If worst comes, you and your staff are to insist on receiving full
diplomatic immunities, privileges and courtesies. Status given you
by Commonwealth Government and accepted by United Kingdom
Government is diplomatic with designation of Official
Representative.

Through Protecting Power we shall insist on you and your staff
being included in any evacuation scheme agreed on with Japanese
Government.

We are endeavouring to arrange such a scheme, but Australian
officials still held in Japan, while Japanese officials remain in
Australia. If necessary, show paraphrase (repeat paraphrase) of
this to Japanese administration.

Acknowledge this. [1]

1 In cablegram 138 of 11 February (on file AA:A981, Australia
237B) Bowden replied: 'I and my staff greatly appreciate
instructions and efforts you propose to make on our behalf.'


[AA:A981, AUSTRALIA 237B]
Last Updated: 11 September 2013
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