1. It is most unsatisfactory that the United Kingdom has so
hurriedly agreed to a Three Power Conference the business of which
will greatly affect Australia particularly items Nos. 3, 4, 5, and
6. [1] Again there was no adequate consultation. I refer to
telegram sent to you regarding Korea and the Far Eastern
Commission. [2]

In circumstances our line should be consistent and clear.

2. These discussions will obviously affect directly the Pacific
and Japanese settlement. Australia should make a dignified
objection not only to any such discussion on any such items
without being represented, but also to the fact that the United
Kingdom Government knew of the proposals on 26th November and did
not inform Australia until 16 days later.

3. Care apparently is taken to associate Canada with item one,
atomic energy, similar care should now be taken to associate
Australia with items 3, 4, 5 and 6.

4. The United Kingdom Government should not have agreed to
conference except on such an understanding and should now be asked
from Australia to agree to our representation at the conference or
as an alternative not to agree to any proposals on the items
mentioned except with Australia's prior consultation and approval.

5. If Duncan had asked Bevin either not to agree to the conference
except on the basis mentioned herein, or to delay the agreement
until Australia was consulted the situation might have been
satisfactorily dealt with, but I feel that the real responsibility
lies on the United Kingdom Government and their tactics at their
end was very much of a bustling character. Duncan might enquire
when after 26th November Canada was first informed of proposal.