740.00119 Control (Japan)/12–3145
The Australian Minister (Egglestori) to the Secretary of State
Sir: I have the honour to refer to your note67 in reply to my communication of 20th October relative to the participation of British Commonwealth Forces in the occupation of Japan.
The statement of general principles proposed by the United States Government has been noted, and has been the subject of consultation between the British Commonwealth Governments concerned. Discussions on this matter have also taken place between General MacArthur and Lieut. General Northcott, Commander-in-Chief of the British Commonwealth Occupation Force.
We have been advised by General Northcott of the arrangements which have been agreed upon between General MacArthur and himself concerning the British Commonwealth Occupation Force. These arrangements which, in the view of the British Commonwealth Governments concerned, are the practical application of the general principles proposed by the United States Government, are recorded in a memorandum signed at Tokyo on 18th December, 1945, and it is understood that the text of the memorandum has been communicated to the United States Government by General MacArthur.
The Australian Government, acting on behalf of the other British Commonwealth Governments concerned, now desires to inform you that these Governments welcome the arrangements agreed between General MacArthur and Lieut. General Northcott as a logical outcome of the general principles set out in the United States Government’s letter under reply. We propose that the arrangements, as set out in the memorandum referred to, be accepted and placed on record as the agreed basis on which the British Commonwealth Force will proceed to and participate in the occupation of Japan, subject, however, to further detailed consideration of matters such as the internal organisation of the Forces, the supply of stores, and financial arrangements.
While the detailed order of battle and organisation of the British Commonwealth Occupation Forces have not yet been finalised, the bulk of the forces are now concentrated. To enable arrangements for their move to be made the Australian Government would appreciate early advice as to whether the basis of participation, as indicated in paragraph 4 above, is acceptable to the United States Government.
I have [etc.]