Cablegram 135 CANBERRA, 6 December 1946
SECRET IMMEDIATE
Your 274 [1] and 276. [2] We will want to continue effective
representation throughout N.E.I. and Indonesia. We do not want to
lay the pattern of this representation until we can see the most
effective points of contact. For example we would not commit
ourselves to Dutch accreditation if this would prejudice an
effective exchange with the Indonesian Republic.
In short we could not allow the Dutch to take advantages of the
present temporary situation in a way which limits our future
action.
2. We can see nothing in the proposed agreement which would
prevent the United States of Indonesia from according the Republic
the right to establish direct representation.
3. You should give all possible assistance and advice to the
Indonesian authorities even if it must be done at present on an
informal basis. We do not want to weaken our influence by any
rigid adherence to protocol. Now that the terms of the agreement
are known I can see no objection to your close association with
the Indonesian authorities and you are instructed to follow that
line with the object of strengthening Australian influence.
Australian relations with Indonesia will be of supreme importance.
4. Please report what you have done in pursuance of these
instructions.
[AA:A1838/238, 401/3/10/1, i]