I am in full agreement with the objectives you have in mind. [2]
The Commonwealth Government has welcomed the initiative taken by
the United Kingdom and United States Governments to formulate and
exchange views on various aspects of a post-war world order which
would be based on the fundamental principles for which we are
fighting. It has also given the Commonwealth Government the
opportunity to consider such questions and express its opinions.

2. Experience to date has shown, however, that much preparatory
work is necessary before we can declare precisely the details of
the many ramifications of the new order which it is sought to
establish.

3. I therefore have considerable doubts as to whether a meeting of
Prime Ministers, as early as proposed, would be capable of
achieving what we all have in mind, without much greater
preparation than appears possible before then.

4. However, in my own case, there is an added overriding reason
which prevents my attendance. I do not feel warranted in leaving
my post in Australia while the continued marshalling of Japanese
strength and the consolidation of their positions goes on in the
islands to the north of Australia and while the local Commanders
represent their concern with the military position and the
strength of forces necessary to cope with it. I have dealt with
this at length in my separate cablegrams to President Roosevelt
and yourself. [3]

5. If your suggestion meets with the general agreement of the
other Prime Ministers, I would propose that Dr. Evatt should
represent Australia if the meeting is held while he is in the
United Kingdom. The earlier the discussions are held, the better
it would suit his movements as the next Parliamentary Session is
expected to commence in June.

CURTIN