Transmission to Hood or Hodgson, whichever represents Australia at
Security Council Meeting on INDONESIA.

Begins:-

(1) I have only latest broadcast report that police action has
been commenced by Dutch against Republic.

(2) This is direct challenge to United Nations and particularly to
Security Council. Hood and Hodgson know history fully. Security
Council are still seized with it and should direct immediate
cessation of fighting or any use whatever of force.

(3) Hodgson strongly suspected Belgian President of Security
Council was working with Dutch and it is extraordinary to find
affair timed as it is in recess of Assembly and, probably,
Security Council. Therefore Security Council should not adjourn
without order or undertaking equivalent of order.

Stikker, Dutch Foreign Minister, saw me at Paris and did not give
slightest inkling of this action. It seems extremely reprehensible
and there may have to be some tough things said to restore Dutch
to sense of responsibility to United Nations. Telephone this to
Hood or Hodgson, emphasising necessity of taking action before
adjournment and forcing matter to a vote. You can imagine reaction
in India, Pakistan, Ceylon and South East Asia generally, unless
we make courageous attempt to prevent shocking loss of life.

(4) Please keep me fully informed. Also let Mr. Beasley know that
Bevin on Thursday in presence of Attlee told me that no police
action was contemplated by Dutch.

(5) It is vital to Australia to act resolutely in this crisis,
without any bias in favour of either side and solely with a view
to prevent loss of life and insist on adherence to authority of
United Nations. Under no circumstances tolerate any move for
adjournment, which will cause or facilitate fait accompli. (Ends)