Documents Relating to New Zealand's Participation in the Second World War 1939–45: Volume II

General Conclusions

General Conclusions

Of the factors considered above, the conclusions arrived at in regard to ( a) Relative Strategical Importance of European and Pacific Theatres, ( d) Shipping, ( e) Time Factor, ( g) Re-employment of Troops are decisively in favour of retaining 2nd Division in Europe.

( c) Present and Pending Operations—slightly favour retaining 2nd Division abroad, while ( f) Climate, Relief and Casualties—favour retaining 3rd Division in the Pacific, except for the difficulties created in 3rd Division through the necessity on account of climate to grant leave in New Zealand.

( b) Political—strongly favour retaining 3rd Division in the Pacific though, subject to expert judgment on political issues, it seems that a sufficient answer to any Australian or United States adverse opinion is available in New Zealand's past record in the Pacific and in the Air and Navy forces remaining there, and a complete answer when after the defeat of Germany, a New Zealand division again takes the field against Japan.

( h) Temporary return of either Division—applies equally to both divisions.