§ 87. Mr. J. Patonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what representations he has received from the Australian Government for early British Commonwealth consultations to consider peace terms for Japan; if the date and place of the Peace Conference have now been determined; and if he is now able to name the British representatives to the Peace Conference.
§ Mr. MayhewHis Majesty's Government have for some time thought it desirable that there should be a preliminary meeting of members of the British Commonwealth on a Ministerial level in order to provide for an exchange of views on the problems which will arise when the time comes to make peace with Japan. The Australian Government have suggested that such a meeting should be held in Canberra, and we for our part have expressed 175W our willingness to send representatives there. If the proposal proves to be generally acceptable it is contemplated that the meeting should begin towards the end of August. As to the Peace Conference proper, no decision has yet been taken as to when and where it will be held, nor is it yet known who will represent the United Kingdom.