Minister has been very interested in your reports. He feels definitely that from point of view of effect on public opinion here postponement would be much better than another adverse vote. Irish Independent is already suggesting formal withdrawal of application. Minister agrees that as action this session now so unlikely you should return to Ottawa. As you say you could always return New York if situation changes.

Minister feels it would be well if before going you would see Oscar Lange¹ of Poland who supported us at Security Council and thank him for support given. You might be able to get light from him as to strength of and reasons for Russian attitude. For your information Warsaw is sounding us indirectly about recognition but at the moment there is no change in our attitude.

From Secretary. Grateful if you could ascertain casually from Seán Lester what he intends to do when he ceases to be Secretary-General.