Reference exchange of Missions with Russia.

1. New Zealand Government are now considering text of agreement
for exchange of consul with Russia, and have asked our views. [1]
We are asking them to discuss matter personally next week when New
Zealand Delegation arrives here. [2]

2. Some time ago Eggleston strongly advocated Australian
representation in Russia. [3] We have instructed him to discuss it
with Russian Ambassador at Chungking. [4]

3. It is desired you approach Maisky [5] immediately with a view
to general agreement by Russia for exchange of accredited
representatives.

4. As you know previous Government favoured exchange of consular
representations [sic], and we suggested to you despatch of
representative Goodwill Mission. [6] Matter was then held up at
suggestion of Cripps [7], because of Russia's military
preoccupations.

5. Endeavour therefore to reach immediate general agreement on
following lines: U.S.S.R. and Australia will agree in principle to
exchange of Ministers: until it is practicable to initiate new
system, Bruce [8] will be accredited by Australia to Russia and
Maisky to Australia from Russia and direct contact between
Ministers will take place in London. Appointment will be of
interim character but will establish the principle of reciprocal
exchange which each country desires and which will be fully
implemented in the near future.

6. As we were the Dominion which took the lead in these exchanges,
we would like to get the agreement approved before New Zealand
acts.

PRIME MINISTER