[matter omitted]

The Special Political Committee began yesterday its consideration of the question of admission to membership of the United Nations of the Republic of Korea and Vietnam. There is no great enthusiasm for the admission of these two members and, even though they succeed in obtaining the necessary two-thirds majority in the Assembly, they are almost certain to be vetoed by Soviet Russia in the Security Council. Whatever the position as regards Vietnam, however, I don’t see how we can refrain from voting for the Republic of Korea. After all, it has shown itself a staunch opponent of Communism in the Far East and, as you know, it is an important field of activity for Irish missionaries. Dr. Helen Kim, of Korea, who interviewed me on the matter the other day, made a strong case for Ireland’s support of Korea’s admission. The principal argument likely to be brought against the admission of Korea – namely, the fact that the country is at present partitioned, and, therefore, admission should wait until its unity is restored – is, for obvious reasons, not one which we could appear to support.

[matter omitted]