Office of the Historian

501.BC Indonesia/9–148: Telegram

The Ambassador in the Netherlands (Baruch) to the Secretary of State

secret
The Hague, September 1, 1948—11 a. m.

560. Boon, political chief Foreign Office, stated today suggested alterations in draft agreement (Embtel 557, August 28) have already been received from NEI Government, that translation final text would be made Batavia in order to avoid having several different versions. Inasmuch as Cochran may receive official translation several days in advance of Embassy, Department may wish request draft agreement be cabled from Batavia.1

Political chief said while Beel would initially replace Vredenburch as delegate supreme government (other delegates being Van Mook and Neher) Schuurman would remain as political adviser and negotiating head Netherlands delegation under Beel. It appears Bentinck2 was unable or unwilling accept appointment. (Embtel 539, August 243). Boon admitted Beel being groomed for high commissioner post interim Indonesian Federal Government but added change in government here could alter all these plans. Referring to report of Van Mook’s early return to Hague, Boon said that all questions would be dealt with during his visit, adding that establishment interim Indonesian Government would give Van Mook occasion to retire which has long been in his mind.

Boon commented Republic becoming increasingly bad tempered since opium smuggling disclosure and search Republican headquarters Batavia revealed presence of arms. Responding to query, he said he nevertheless entertained hopes negotiations with Republic would be resumed shortly under auspices GOC, possibly at new locale within demilitarized zone easily accessible to both parties. He mentioned reports had been received Republic may attempt again bring dispute before next meeting SC charging failure GOC to contribute to solution in hopes powers GOC may be enlarged.

Sent Department 560; Department pass Batavia.4

Baruch
  1. Telegram 742, September 1, 2 p. m., from Batavia, quoted the text of the Netherlands material handed to the U.S. delegation at noon, August 31; certain corrections were sent in telegram 762, September 7, 9 a. m., from Batavia, neither telegram printed. (501.BC Indonesia/9–148, 9–748)↩
  2. Baron A. W. C. Bentinck, member of the Netherlands delegation at the UN.↩
  3. Not printed.↩
  4. This was done the same day.↩