INDONESIA

Reference para 1 of your 4370 [1] To avoid possible
misunderstanding, we wish to make it clear that letter given by
Sjahrir to Brookes [2] was addressed to Brookes personally and did
not contain specific request to Australian Government to raise
Indonesian question in United Nations. it stated that Indonesian
Cabinet had unanimously agreed to proposal by Sjahrir that
Australian Government could be approached and asked whether
Brookes could do something along those lines. Kirby subsequently
advised that he understood Sjahrir intended to indicate he might
make a formal request to Australia if and when his counter
proposals were turned down by the Dutch. [3]

2. For your information, Copland advises that Vice Foreign
Minister, Liu, referred to deaths of Chinese in Indonesia,
suggested political settlement in Indonesia should be expedited,
and enquired whether Australia would be interested in
participating in any such move. He also hinted at mediation or
reference of problem to Security Council. Copland made no comment.

3. Early advice would be appreciated regarding present position in
connection with our telegram 243 of 14th June to Dominions Office
[4] concerning trial of Indonesians accused of murdering
Australians.

4. Please send Officer copy of your 437 and this telegram.