856E.00/5–2347: Telegram
The Consul General at Batavia (Foote) to the Secretary of State
186. Beel and Jonkman left by air for Hague via Singapore late today. Schermerhorn and Van Poll, members Commission General, leaving for Hague May 25 by air.
My talks today with the four men lead to conclusion they feel further negotiations will be fruitless. For Dept’s information, events and statements by Indonesians last few days convinced me further negotiations will lead nowhere. Sjahrir very unhappy but has no authority conclude any agreement. Each little decision must be submitted Djocja Karta87a for confirmation and in nearly every case Sjahrir’s recommendations are rejected by Djocja.
My opinion is Dutch wish implement Linggadjati Agreement and establish sovereign United States of Indonesia but efforts do so always rejected by Indonesians. Any decisions reached at Hague after return of Beel and Jonkman and two members Commission General will probably be to implement Linggadjati and proceed with formation United States of Indonesia with all speed possible. If this not done I reluctantly reach conclusion this country will decline into further chaos retarding all attempts at rehabilitation. My report on communism which completed and awaiting next courier leads to conclusion communism is real and immediate danger. General situation which is tense and at crisis being watched closely as possible.
- Variant spelling of Jogjakarta.↩