My telegram D No.184 of to-day. [1]

Japanese Mandated Islands.

1. We consider that the reported Russian change of attitude, which
we have only now heard, will, if confirmed, create a situation in
which it is most unlikely that there will be any substantial body
of opposition to the United States proposal in the Security
Council. We feel, that, in such circumstances our position would
be very embarrassing if opposition came only or mainly from
British Commonwealth members.

2. In view of the urgency if the proposal does in fact come before
the Council to-morrow, we have asked the United Kingdom
representative to get in touch at once with his Australian
colleague and discuss the matter with him, explaining the
instructions which he has received, as summarised in my telegram
under reference, as to the general attitude he should adopt. In
particular he has been asked to make it clear that, if he should
find himself in a position where he thinks that, in the light of
the nature of his instructions and of general sense of the
council, he should vote in favour of the United States proposal,
this action would in no way conflict with our determination to
endeavour to ensure that Australia is brought in on the ground
floor to the fullest possible extent in preparations for the
eventual peace settlement with Japan.