501.BC Indonesia/10–648: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Consulate General at Batavia
us urgent
niact
472. Usgoc 157. Counselor NethEmb called at Dept request morning Oct 6. Dept officers conveyed in solemn fashion Cochran’s estimate consequences of present NethDel position as expressed covering letter and oral notes pointing out that Cochran could not temporize much longer and that most expeditious action on part Neth Govt imperative; that if, as Cochran and Dept believed, Hatta should regard presentation Neth letter and oral notes tantamount to rejection substance USDel’s plan and submitted case to SC, Dept would in ensuing debate support Cochran proposal and would in circumstances recover freedom of action in respect entire Indonesian question, requesting SC to be relieved of its responsibilities on GOC. In recapitulating Dept officers made clear that Dept and Cochran considered Neth Govt must recede from or modify its position in respect of substance and phraseology covering letter and total unacceptability provisions Cochran plan to which objections set forth in oral notes I and II; that Cochran and Dept believed that resumption of negotiations possible if conditions identified ninth para Gocus 4031 be removed.
Neth Counselor, stating he had no knowledge covering letter and annexes, visibly shaken. He undertook immediately to communicate Dept’s views to Hague suggesting desirability Dept instructing Baruch make strong representations Neth FonMin. Baruch will be so instructed [Page 389] immediately. Dept officers suggested that in view shortness of time Neth Govt should communicate its decision this matter simultaneously to Cochran, NethEmb Wash, and Baruch.
Dept much appreciates excellent analysis situation Gocus 403. Regrets unsatisfactory telephone connection but presumes Dept’s choice of answer “no” was clear. From foregoing it will be apparent that Dept has exerted every pressure mentioned Gadel 104.2
Dept requests you postpone discussion GOC procedure suggested para 9 numbered 2 until receipt Dept views this matter.