You will have seen FEC28, reporting 7th meeting of Commission 28th
November. [1] There was substantial agreement on contents of
document 'post-surrender policy for Japan' produced by basic
policy committee under Dr. Evatt's chairmanship. Contents are in
line with Australian policies stated in telegrams sent in August
and September to United Kingdom and conveyed to other Governments,
including United States.

Only one point of significance raised in Commission in considering
various reports from the Committee remained outstanding towards
close of meeting (see FEC28, paragraph 3 (b)). [2] American
representative, McCoy, however speaking from the chair strongly
resisted endeavour of Evatt supported by Halifax, Pearson [3],
Bajpai [4] and others to have the document given general approval
as suitable for submission to Governments. Evatt, realizing
further perseverance might create rupture, agreed to reference
back to sub committee although majority of commission were clearly
of his opinion that document could be approved.

McCoy's behaviour has caused some comment among Delegations and
Evatt's reputation has been enhanced. (Fact is work so far done by
Commission has been due to his initiative and drive). Halifax and
Pearson were especially helpful. McCoy's contention was that some
matters of substance had not been given 'due consideration'. Evatt
rightly pointed out that long series of discussions, especially in
committee, had given everyone full opportunity to clear such
matters.

At sub committee meeting following commission all points so far
raised and still outstanding were settled and preamble agreed on.

Preamble had taken on some significance as it contained phrases
bearing more emphasis on positive and constructive long range
policy for Japan than appears at first sight in basi[c] policy
report. In commissions consideration of preamble Evatt after
obtaining omission of some phrases which might be interpreted as
over conciliatory towards Japanese finally accepted general sense.

Much of preamble in any case originated from Australian draft and
matters of special interest to Australia were included.

America may raise at next meeting of commission some matters not
hitherto raised by 7th meeting should document [5] be acceptable
to majority of delegations without substantial change as suitable
'basic policy' for submission to Governments.

All informed agree that early development of Commission into
effective inter-governmental organ for co-ordination of policy is
mainly due to Australian leadership. Close and harmonious British
Commonwealth relations have been a feature of FEC work.