394.31/3–3051: Telegram
The Ambassador in Australia (Jarman) to the Secretary of State
priority
270. Deptel 255 Mar 26, rptd info Torquay 509. Approach made to Ext Aff Secy in absence Min. Deep concern expressed. Received promise of urgent and sympathetic consideration at Cabinet level our request for re-examination Australian position and of desire “to do more” but no positive commitment made. Secy made fol tentative comment as background (1) Australia realizes proposed US wool concession maximum permissible under law but still feels it insufficient cause significant long term effect on movement wool to market, “do not feel wool offer of same order of significance as you consider it” (2) Australia wld be little disposed consider releasing Commonwealth preferences, regardless merits, unless indication received this desired by other Commonwealth countries involved, Canada specifically mentioned this regard. Australia release even in these circumstances not to be assumed without compensation adequate from Australian viewpoint.
In re-examination Australian position Liberal Govt must take account election campaign now beginning and Labor plank for “full tariff protection”.
Dept pass Torquay, sent Dept 270, rptd info Torquay unn.