856D.00/12–1045
Memorandum of Conversation, by the Secretary of State
Lord Halifax called, at his request, to see the Secretary and handed him a statement regarding the Indonesian situation.32 The British Government believes, instead of having the American Ambassador at The Hague approach the Netherlands Government, it would be better for some public statement to be issued in Washington, expressing the hope that negotiations will continue. The British would like to have this statement contain recognition of the fact that British troops have gone to Java for the purpose of completing surrender of Japanese and looking after Allied prisoners of war and internees.
Lord Halifax said he had just read an appreciation by Lord Mountbatten, which indicates that unless a political settlement is reached, it will be necessary for the British to withdraw, leaving unsurrendered Japanese forces. He said Mr. Bevin33 is working with the Dutch toward attaining such a settlement. Mountbatten believes it would require five or six divisions to disarm the Japanese there unless a political settlement is reached, and the British believe that a political settlement is the only solution.
The Secretary agreed that a political settlement was the only practical solution. The Secretary inquired what the British are doing to bring about a settlement.
Lord Halifax said there have been several meetings to try to get the Dutch and Indonesians together. He understands that Van Mook is going back to Holland to try to persuade his Government toward a political settlement. Bevin is now faced with Mountbatten’s extremely disagreeable military appreciation and is trying to explore further with the Dutch the reaching of a settlement. They just hope, Lord Halifax said, that the Secretary could say something about meeting around the table to discuss these problems.
The Secretary said he did not know whether he would have an opportunity to look into the matter before leaving, but he would try to.
Lord Halifax said that if he did not hear from the Secretary he would get in touch with Mr. Acheson about the matter.