Dutch Authorities at Batavia are raising last minute difficulties
about admission of Australian observers. [1] In our view their
action amounts to open contempt for authority of Committee of Good
Offices. [2] The decision to increase the number of military
assistants was discussed by the Committee with Van Vredenburch two
weeks ago, when no objection was raised. The Dutch have now
insisted that the Committee's decision be referred in writing to
the Netherlands Delegation.

Meanwhile all arrangements for the departure of fourteen observers
from Australia had been completed and they were to leave Darwin
early this morning. Up to the present no authority for them to
proceed has been received from the Dutch. We have protested to
Netherlands Legation here which knows nothing about the matter.

Understand from Critchley that Spoor is mainly responsible for the
delay. [3] Critchley emphasises seriousness of further delay since
the truce situation requires presence of additional military
assistants as early as possible.

The Committee yesterday informed the Netherlands delegation in
writing that the presence of military assistants in sufficient
number to cover the critical areas was a matter of vital
importance, and requested an urgent decision.

To-day's press reports Republican allegations to Committee
regarding 300 Indonesian casualties in 30 incidents since signing
of the truce. We are asking Critchley for details. Allegations
suggest that Dutch are continuing flagrant violence [4] of truce
agreement.