Thanks for your telegram. [1] Question of initiative is most
difficult especially in the absence of a Minister. For example, at
the opening session, friend Romulo, will probably insist on
talking and others will follow and presumably observer status
would force us into the background.

2. Question of status has been raised by the Press and have told
them that we have nothing to add to statement originally made. It
is incomprehensible from Conference point of view as there will be
no voting and it is only a question of Australia's position in
this group. If possible, suggest that observer be avoided and
emphasis placed on official status.

3. Have spoken to officials and Nehru. Conference will go along
the lines we want but undoubtedly it will be suggested that the
Security Council should consider some form of enforcement action,
if the Dutch ignore Council or delay. Assume as Australia raised
the matter under Chapter 7 [2] you would agree to proposal that
Council should consider such action. Much will depend on the
actual wording.

4. On regional organisation India can be persuaded to take joint
action with us. In the meantime care must be taken at this
Conference to ensure that continuing Committee or any such
arrangement does not by degrees form into regional group.

5. Indians believe there are great advantages in forming regional
group including only those countries with independent status, that
is, excluding the U.K., U.S.A., France. Subsequently, it would not
then be necessary to include Russia. Otherwise they fear regional
group would be over-shadowed by the same considerations as prevent
[effective] [3] work at other international conferences.

6. Your statements [4] reported today about the British
Commonwealth countries in this area taking the lead even in world
affairs was most helpful.