Usman, who, as you know, has been in Australia representing
Indonesian interests with the full knowledge and consent of the
Dutch, has issued invitations to a party as Representative of the
Republic. Up to date he has been received in Canberra without any
question being raised as to status. He considers he has to
reciprocate, and has invited all the diplomatic community to his
party next Tuesday. Teppema has taken exception, and is
endeavouring to persuade members of the diplomatic community not
to attend. Already the press are watching developments.

Embarrassment is being caused to everyone concerned, whereas, if
Teppema treated it as a matter of course and himself attended, it
would pass off without notice and without implication. Please
explain background to the appropriate authority and endeavour to
have an appropriate instruction sent to Teppema. There is no
sinister motive behind the party and the only harm that can come
is through certain representatives not attending.

2. We have received reports [1] of Bevin's discussions with Beel
and others and his emphasis on the need for early settlement
particularly so as to avoid a left wing change in the Republic. We
shall send further information on this for the information of the
Minister if you have not a full report. Please advise. [2]

3. The present may be a critical stage, particularly if the new
Government endeavours to obtain a quick settlement, and Teppema's
completely unreasonable attitude is just the kind of thing to make
negotiations more difficult.