DUTCH BOYCOTT
RECEPTION
CANBERRA, Tues.: The
Dutch Minister to Australia
(Mr Teppema) today boycotted
the reception given to
mark the third anniversary of
the founding of the Indonesian
Republic.
THE reception, organised by
the Indonesian representative
(Dr Usman), was held at
Hotel Canberra and was attended
by other members of the
Diplomatic Corps, high Govern-
ment officials and the Press.
Mr Teppema, when asked if
he was going to the reception,
said: "Of course not. I do
not usually attend receptions
given* by people who are not
duly accredited diplomatic representatives.''
Dr. Usman said he was sorry
Dutch officials did not attend
the reception as the two coun-
tries were not at war "as yet."
Their absence would not make
any difference to the party, but,
he added, "Why can't they come
along and have a drink and an
enjoyable evening?"