INDONESIA

1. The London Times Leader, published today, seems, in the light
of such information as is available here, accurate as to the
facts.

2. References to the reasons for Sassen's resignation are however
too condensed. According to Hansard report of Drees Statement of
February 18th just received. Sassen's ideas involved:-

(A) Approach to the United States with a request to restrain the
U.N.C.I. fromexercising authority, and with proposals for 'South
East Asia policy, in collaboration, amongst others, between
America and the Netherlands'.

(B) The despatch of a special mission to the United States for
this purpose and the threat of complete Dutch withdrawal from
Indonesia if the Americans declined to co-operate.

Parting of the ways was on (B). Remainder of Cabinet expect the
same result as Sassen from pressure on the United States.

3. Beel returns tomorrow according to the official communique,
'fully informed of the Netherlands Government's views and
entrusted with the necessary powers'. It is further stated in the
publication that 'Important decisions' may be expected on his
arrival in Batavia Saturday.