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Historical documents

1 Burton to Kirby

Cablegram 112 CANBERRA, 2 January 1948

TOP SECRET PERSONAL

Netherlands Minister has raised with Minister again question of
shipping ban [1] and, in particular, has asked for an assurance
that airplanes and ships calling here will be serviced. Discussion
got back to point that there should be some revival of the
agreement between Republicans and Dutch under which goods would be
lifted from Australia. [2]

2. As soon as 'cease fire' arrangements look to be effective, it
would be desirable to raise again the question of trade with the
Republic and the revival of the former agreement. If the agreement
is so revived, there should be an arrangement whereby goods
already shipped and, in particular, trucks are distributed
according to the agreement.

3. It is very important that we should have detailed facts
regarding use of economic power to control populations. We know
you are convinced that economic power is being so used [3], but
there is no direct evidence yet. If possible, it would be
preferable if the Committee itself could examine the matter. You
will appreciate the political importance of having available these
facts if attempts to re-establish trade are not successful.

1 The reference is to the Waterside Workers' Federation ban on the
loading and unloading of Dutch shipping in Australian ports.

2 The text of the agreement signed by A.K. Gani and J.E. van
Hoogstraten on 24 May 1947 is given in Volume XI, Appendix II.

3 See Documents 429 and 434 in Volume XI.


[AA:A3196, 1948, 0.68]
Last Updated: 11 September 2013
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