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4.
We have assumed that the British delegation at the Far Eastern conversations will be composed of the same representatives as those attending the (British) Far Eastern Defence Conference, which includes representatives of Australia, New Zealand, India and Burma.
Assumption on which the Conversations should be based.
5.
Although Mr. Cordell Hull has made it clear, in suggesting immediate private staff discussions, that the conversations must be technical and not concerned with political policy, the assumption on which they are based must be that the Americans, Dutch and ourselves are at war with Japan. As we have pointed out above, it must be borne in mind that a state of war between America and Japan will probably also lead to war between America and both Germany and Italy. This assumption will be, of course, entirely without prejudice and will imply no political commitment.
6. The fact that the conversations are taking place, although socrct, will probably become known to the Japanese, and will be calculatoa to exercise a deterrout effect upon thom. This will be all to the good,
I.
THE CONVERSATIONS IN THE FAR EAST,
Object of the Conversations.
ત્
The object of the conversations in the Far East will be to co-ordinate plans for the employment of the British, American and Dutch forces in the event of war against Japan.
8.
Although the basis of the tripartite talks will be mutual action by all three countries, it does not necessarily follow that the Dutch would come to our assistance in the event of a Japanese attack on Hong Kong, even if the Americans were to intervene. In addition to the three-Power discussions we ought, therefore, to discuss common action with the Americans in the event of the Dutch failing to intervene. Similarly, we should discuss plans with the Dutch in the event of the Americans failing to come in. As the Dutch representatives will probably arrive before the Americans, this should present no difficulty.
Time Factor.
9.
In view of the re-opening of the Burma Road on 18th October, and possible Japanese reactions, it is important that the conversations should begin as soon as possible.
10. As soon as confirmation is received from Washington that the American Government have authorised American participation in the conversations, we consider that the American Government should be urged to send their representa- tives to Singapore at the earliest possible moment. The conversations should not be allowed to be held up by the British Far East Defence Conference, if this has not been completed. If necessary, the two conferences should be conducted in parallel.
Scope of the Conversations.
11.
We consider that the scope of the conversations at Singapore should be limited to the military problem in the Far East, the Pacific, the Indian Ocean and Australasia.
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