TNAG-0325-FCO40-361-Proposed-visit-by-the-Secretary-of-State-for-Foreign-and-Com-1972 — Page 55

4.

British Ministers have visited Indonesia much loss

Ixequently. Hr Whitaker, then Tarlianmtary Secretary at the

Miniatry of Overseas Development, visited the country in April

1970 and lix Wood, the Minister for Overseas Development, wont

there for a week in March this year. By Royle hopon to visit

Djakarta and other parta of Indonesia carly in December

5. The results of the elections which took place in July are

regarded by our Ambassador as demonstrating popular support

for the Indonesian Goverment;'s policice. Tho Goverment'o

efforts to bring about stability in Indonesian political and

scononio affairs are beginning to show reaultu. We have

[recently pledged 59 m, in economic aid to Indonesia, four times

the figure for 1970/72. A visit by the Secretary of State

about the middle of next year would be well timed, A lator

cho might clash with the prosidential election which is due

to take place in 1973. But a visit in mid-1972 would take plac

before the Fresident became fully engaged in his election

campaign and would demonstrate BIG'o continuing interost in

Indonesia and her development.

6. I understand that Far Rastom Department, in a separato

submission, will be recommending that the Secretary of State

should also visit Tokyo and Cooul

12 Octobor 1971

001 Sir S Tomlinson

Mr Loran

P & C Dopt

CONPTURENUTAT,

SVT Hartin

South Wost Peoific Do # X 262 Main A 341