790.5/9–2952: Telegram
The Ambassador in Australia (Jarman) to the Department of State1
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120. Embtel 115, Sept 25, Embdes 183, Sept 24.2 Casey today sent long top secret personal msg to Eden expressing Austral Govt’s “concern” about “spate” of London news articles on Brit rep ANZUS. Msg says these “echoed” by press here and “seized by opposition” to embarrass govt.
Msg says gen tenor London arts that US holds out against Brit rep, and Australia, NZ while fundamentally desirous have Brit rep, have bowed US pressure. As matter fact all three ANZUS members in full agreement.
Austral freedom reply to public criticism is limited but same time Austral Govt can not allow self be associated in public mind with implication that US alone carries odium refusal Brit request. Public clamor doubtless based on misconception purpose ANZUS which consultative body only and does not plan for whole Pacific area. Is true wider org needed to accomplish such planning and coming five-power conf may prove step that direction.
Casey concluded by expressing hope Brit views wld be reconsidered and Eden cld “perhaps at appropriate time make public statement” which wld “damp down present agitation”.