Minute from John A. Belton to Seán Murphy (Dublin)

It is, of course, quite clear that the only ‘regional group’ that Ireland can belong to is the West European one and consequently Mr. Conway was correct in attending the unofficial caucus meeting convened by the French Delegation. There is always the fear that there may be a caucus meeting of the caucus meeting in which we might not be included, and at which the real decisions would be reached. We should nevertheless lose no opportunity to have our voice heard in our appropriate group when we have reached definite opinions.

On the three questions now before the caucus meeting I agree with Mr. Lennon’s suggestions above particularly in the matter of expediting deliberations at the General Assembly. The meetings of the General Assembly will impose a considerable expenditure of time and money on the part of the Minister and other members of the delegation and any reasonable step that will encourage a reduction of such expenditure should be supported subject always to avoidance of measures such as Mr. Conway refers to that might be availed of to curtail discussions on questions embarrassing to the major powers.

If you agree with the foregoing, I will draft an appropriate cablegram for Mr. Conway.