Your telegram Nos. D.54 [2] and 21 [3] Colonial Policy. We have
noted terms of revised draft declaration which is to serve as
basis for discussion between Lord Halifax and Mr. Hull. In this
connection the Commonwealth Government would wish it to be clearly
understood with reference to paragraph 5 of the draft that it
regards Australian specific, strategic and economic interests as
extending to South-East Asia, the South-West Pacific and the
Pacific areas. We have been studying the project for a regional
commission for these areas and will in due course communicate our
views.

In the meantime we assume that we will be advised by you of the
stage when we may take formal part in negotiations that may
develop in Washington. Our Minister there is fully informed of our
views and has discussed question with Halifax. [4]