501.BC Indonesia/10–548: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in the Netherlands
us urgent
493. Fol is Gocus 403 Oct 5: [Here follows quotation of telegram 884, printed on page 384.] Fol receipt above tel, Dept gave Cochran answer “no” by phone.
Dept officials immediately held conversation with Helb, Counselor, Neth Emb, and made clear extremely serious consequences which, in both Cochran’s and Dept’s opinion, would result if Neth counterproposals were transmitted to Repub. Dept emphasized 2 major objections Neth counterproposals from point view negotiability with Repub: (a) Neth demands re “conditions precedent to resumption negotiations”, and method presentation such demands; (b) substantial differences between Neth counterproposals and USDel proposals, involving “heart” USDel plan. On latter point, we stressed fact that 3 different US Reps on GOC had reached identical conclusions re essential points in which Repub could not, and should not be asked by GOC, accede Dutch position. Pursuant Cochran’s tel quoted above, we pointed out likelihood that, if Neth proposals introduced, Repub would throw matter into SC; that in such event US Govt would support USDel’s proposals; that US would withdraw from GOC; that in consequence withdrawal US would regain freedom of action; that possibly SC might then choose to increase powers of GOC to those of mediation commission.
You are requested convey FonOff immediately views US Govt as set forth above, to end that Neth Govt either (a) modify its position re resumption negotiations or (b) understand clearly US position with regard to future course US action this matter.
[Page 390]Text Neth proposals now being recd by Dept from Batavia will be forwarded you soonest.