740.0011 Pacific War/1344
The Navy Department to the Department of State
Memorandum For State Department
Following information has been received by the Special Naval Observer London from Ambassador Biddle:
Timor was occupied by a force of 230 Dutch and 120 Australian troops December 17. The Dutch report that troops landed in spite of demonstrations from local authorities. At present situation is quiet. In the last 4 days 2 Jap submarines were reported 1 north and 1 south of Timor. It is understood the suggestion of occupation of Timor came from Admiral Hart.