856e.00/2–1848: Telegram
The Consul General at Batavia (Livengood) to the Secretary of State
146. Much speculation and considerable misinformation in press as to comments on Hatta letter to Van Mook and latter’s reply. Letters not yet made public but Consulate General given copies in strict confidence. Hatta’s letter February 9 expressed opinion that establishment interim government would be one of best means to encourage settlement of affairs and stated Republican Government gladly willing cooperate and would appreciate if discussion that end could commence shortly.
Van Mook’s reply February 12 referred to the second sentence of point one and to the second point of these principles signed on January 19, and said, “If, therefore, the idea expressed in your letter is in accordance with the aforementioned points, it is self-evident that there can only be a question about the formation of a pre-federal government for all Indonesia, when a political agreement has been reached with the Government of the Republic.” He added, this condition was already made in a letter from chairman Indonesian delegation dated January 15. Finally, Van Mook quoted from statement by Netherlands Prime Minister to editor of New Rotterdam newspaper: “The Republican Government can only participate in the pre-federal government when a complete political agreement has been accomplished.
With regard to this point, it has appeared during the negotiations that the Republican and Netherlands Delegations share exactly the same view.”
Copies of letters being airmailed.1
- Despatch 64, February 18, not printed.↩