E22.

Your telegram 285 first paragraph [2], I agree. Definite
information intensified mopping up operations will occur
immediately and if no immediate solution by Committee of Three
probable further police action.

2. At yesterday's Mission meeting my part of joint report [3]
submitted and accepted by quorum (American and Belgian Consuls-
General absent). American Consul-General had stated that he was
not prepared to sign any joint report until American Military
observers proceed to field and report. Observers arrived
yesterday. Both American and Belgian Consuls-General stated that
they had definite information that American representative on the
Committee of Three not officially appointed and there was no
reason for urgency in submitting report.

3. At meeting I proposed that Security Council be approached for
instructions regarding submission of joint report or delay until
American Military observers submit their report. This not agreed
on account of stated Russian influence and following telegram was
despatched via British Foreign Office as Chairman was British
Consul-General. Begins:-

Consular Commission has now completed its investigation although
reports from some Military observers have yet to come in. Work has
begun on the draft of main report which should be completed within
two weeks. Ends.

4. Van Mook has stated his impressions in America were that the
Security Council would not in any way be prepared to force
decisions of Council and this is probably the reason for the
present attitude.

5. At yesterday's meeting Belgian and American Consuls left before
business concluded stating they had other business to attend.

Consider in present circumstances Consular Mission will rapidly
degenerate and that no agreeable joint report is probable in the
near future.

6. Consider all necessary ground covered by self and officers and
that delay in awaiting compilation of joint report until
completion of the report by American Military observers will
detract all value of our joint report. Recommend consideration
following:

(a) My immediate return to Australia with officers and to proceed
if required to America with all information gained. [4]

(b) If required to return to Batavia possibly via Indies (KLM [5]
Service-discussed with Officer) within two or three weeks for
joint report purposes.

(c) Consulate to be left temporarily in the hands of Consul posted
in accordance with previous recommendations [6] or Ballard to
return.

(d) If agreed, procedure as follows: immediately during period of
delay to return to Dili by own plane to obtain clothes and for
personal reasons. At Dili to receive instructions from you to
proceed to Canberra. At Darwin en route aeroplane to pick up
Consul or Ballard and return to Batavia.

7. British, French and Chinese Consuls fully sympathise our views
on delay but no positive action can be expected from France.