You are doubtless familiar with terms of our agreement with I.R.O.

for taking up to 12,000 displaced persons per year from Europe.

When agreement was concluded I was assured by I.R.O. they could
provide suitable shipping, that first ship would sail from Europe
in October, 1947, with every indication that UP to 4,000 would
reach Australia this year.

Preliminary advice was received from Geneva giving make-up of
first shipment timed to leave Europe 30th October. However, on
22nd September, after discussions with Linney, I.R.O. Shipping
Controller, Commonwealth Migration Officer, London, cabled that
I.R.O. were meeting with insuperable difficulties in securing
suitable shipping. I.R.O. was depending on two ships, Prince David
and Prince Robert, British vessels which British Ministry advise
are entirely unsuitable and unseaworthy. I.R.O. are hoping to have
vessels overhauled in European shipyard, but considerable delay
must occur on account bad condition each ship. On present outlook
it does not appear that first ship can sail before 1948.

I have despatched strong protest to Innes of I.R.O., London,
pointing out that agreement was signed on understanding that
suitable shipping was available, that wide publicity was given to
the admission of displaced persons, arrangements made for their
employment, accommodation and assimilation, and that any delay in
despatching first shipment would cause considerable embarrassment
to Government and employment authorities here who are anxiously
awaiting this additional labour.

I fear that unless some outside assistance is forthcoming suitable
shipping will not be available and shall be glad if you will
approach William Benton, Assistant Secretary, Department of State,
Washington, with view securing on behalf I.R.O. shipping
considered suitable and safe for shipment displaced persons to
Australia. High degree of comfort not required for these persons
generally have been used lower standards than American or British.

I discussed question of displaced persons scheme with Benton when
in Washington. It should be emphasised to Benton that the shipping
of displaced persons from American Zone will greatly relieve
American expenditure that area.

United States made available certain number of C4 vessels for
charter or loan to I.R.O. for carriage displaced persons to South
America. Similar boats would be suitable for I.R.O.'s Australian
run.

Your urgent representation and assistance in this matter would be
greatly appreciated. [1]