I think I should report for what it is worth present attitude of
Ceylon High Commissioner [1] here on Indonesia. First of all
Goonetilleke is very critical of Bevin's failure to understand
attitude of India, Australia and Ceylon and implications of Dutch
action. He also feels that after their spirited reaction Americans
are losing interest.

2. On other hand he has real doubts about Delhi Conference partly
because number of Governments have declined to participate or are
not sending top line representatives and partly because he
naturally distrusts Indians. Goonetilleke thinks that Menon may in
private talks here have receded somewhat from firm position taken
by three of us at last week's meetings. I doubt this but think
Menon may on certain aspects of Indonesian question prefer to take
up line of his own and to maintain an absolutely independent
position. At same time Goonetilleke is sceptical about Nehru who
'has ambitions to be leader of Asia'. Probably for same reason
Pakistan High Commissioner [2] here while he has supported us has
been very circumspect and I understand has consulted United
Kingdom at some length about Delhi Conference although doubt
whether United Kingdom people have given him any firm advice one
way or other.

3. I merely send this as an indication of atmosphere for Delhi
Conference and because Goonetilleke expressly suggested that I
should warn you along these lines.

4. I think we had some effect though not enough on United Kingdom
attitude last week at any rate insofar as Cadogan was instructed
to condemn Dutch openly.