First Plenary Session of Conference [1] was held yesterday
afternoon and was devoted to Economic Matters. Cripps gave an
admirable survey of the economic position and prospects based on
the document entitled 'Long term programme', which you have
already read. The Chancellors survey did not bring out any points
of which you are not already aware. I responded briefly by
congratulating the Chancellor on your behalf on both his
exposition of a very difficult and complex problem and on the
record of achievements and thorough planning for the future which
was revealed. I referred to your own part in the rehabilitation
planning especially to your general directive of steady assistance
to Britain. The general approach was warmly approved by all other
dominions represented without prejudice to any special points
which Coombs, Wheeler, Wilson and Tonkin [2] are now examining.

Very favourable feature was the attitude of Nehru. [3] A general
discussion on economic matters is scheduled for Wednesday.