Ministerial Despatch Hag 26/47 THE HAGUE, 8 October 1947

TOP SECRET

I have the honour to advise that a strictly confidential report
has reached me according to which the Dutch Government recently
approached the Portuguese Government with a view to enlisting
their support in the prevention of any possible anti-Dutch
propaganda in Timor.

2. It would appear that the Dutch fear that agent provocateurs
from the Indonesian Republic will launch a campaign of incitement
against the Dutch among the Timorese and that they will possibly
conduct their activities from the Portuguese part of Timor. The
exact preventative measures envisaged by the Dutch are not known
but it is believed that they include discussions and co-operation
between local Dutch and Portuguese Intelligence services.

3. The Portuguese, possibly fearing repercussions in their
territory, readily agreed and even advanced a proposal of joint
action by the combined gendarmeries, should trouble occur in any
part of Timor, whether Dutch or Portuguese.

4. This proposal was regarded by the Dutch Government as too
drastic and negotiations are still proceeding. The Dutch hope for
an agreement in line with their original approach.

5. I would stress that this report came to me in the strictest
confidence from a non-Dutch source who had had it from a source
that should be well-informed. I pass it on for what it is worth
but would emphasise that it should be treated as most
confidential.