Dr. Burton this morning at the aerodrome asked me to pass on to
you the intelligence that while they were in London, a meeting was
held to discuss Burma. [2] Mr. Chifley did not attend, neither did
any other Australian delegate, I understand, and Mr. Chifley has
taken the view that assistance to the present Government of Burma
would be in effect throwing so much money away, and he has more
use in Australia for such funds. In any case he declined to extend
any assistance at all. When the party left London, Dr. Burton
believed that a communique was being prepared announcing that
certain help would be given to Burma by various countries
(excluding Australia, or, I should say, omitting Australia).

Dr. Burton also wondered why it was that the Government of India
was backing the present Government of Burma, when one hears on all
sides of their weakness and corruption-I think he would like your
views.

The plane was delayed here over three hours owing to engine
trouble and I am taking the opportunity of writing you after a
late breakfast and while waiting for the office car to return.