501.BC Indonesia/2–1949: Telegram
The Consul General at Batavia (Livengood) to the Secretary of State 1
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185. Gocus 593. Morning 18th Critchley told me had received instructions from his Government to press for submission UNCFI report to SC since they considered statement Netherlands Overseas Minister2 unsatisfactory. I obtained his promise not to demand vote thereon.
At UNCFI meeting afternoon 18th Critchley circulated draft letter to Netherlands Delegation, referring UNCFI’s report to SC February 15 seeking delay and press reports Netherlands Minister’s statement in Lower House. He thought latter indicated government would not immediately release Republican leaders and restore authority Jogja. Draft continued: “If this is indeed policy Netherlands Government there is no justification for Commission delaying its report. It would, therefore, be appreciated if you would inform Commission early as possible whether report of Minister’s statement truly reflects views Netherlands Government in these respects.” I argued for delay pending receipt full translation Minister’s statement which Netherlands Delegation promised us and also for the Netherlands Government decisions expected shortly. I contended we should not revive February 15 report before March 1 if statements from Hague simply reiterate Van Royen’s. With due caution as to optimism, urged we await further development of what appears to be move Hague toward progressive implementation.
Herremans followed my lead. No letter sent. Critchley will reopen issue unless Hague statements or decision in line with SC resolution.
[Page 244]At dinner last night Schuurman told me his house and several others being vacated with view occupancy by members prospective interim government.
Schuurman telephoned this morning that lengthy government statement he anticipated would be made 11 a. m. Hague yesterday had apparently been only brief statement. He thought comprehensive statement government policy on Indonesia thus being postponed. Said he had telegraphed Hague promptly following my yesterday’s visit in order his Government know insistence Republicans on re-establishment Jogja. Am sure Department will do whatever it helpfully can Washington or Hague towards convincing Netherlands Government necessity accepting this point SC resolution.
Visited this morning by all members Republican group Batavia. I told them Schuurman telegraphed Hague my report Republicans insisting on re-establishment Jogja. I urged and they promised refrain from any unhappy statements while debate continuing Hague. In answer my question they said approximately 3,000 Netherlands soldiers Jogja. Said surrounding area except two small towns entirely in Republican hands and any Netherlands communication outside Jogja as with Solo accomplished only by heavily armored convoys. Thought if Netherlands agree withdraw from Jogja, Republican authority could be re-established quickly and easily. Republicans understand Netherlands considering replacement Beel by either Van Mook or Prof. Van Asbeck.
Chinese Consul General called. Submitted detailed report on condition Chinese inhabitants mid-Java. This confirms lack Netherlands control outside principal cities and activities by guerrillas and terrorists taking place constantly including depredations against Netherlands-held positions. Signed Cochran.