Documents Relating to New Zealand's Participation in the Second World War 1939–45: Volume II
177 — The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom to the Prime Minister of New Zealand
177
The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom to the Prime Minister of New Zealand
Your telegram of 19 November.
It would cause me much regret to see the New Zealand Division quit the scene of its glories, but I quite understand your feelings and am aware how embarrassing the withdrawal of the 9th Australian Division would be to you. At my request the whole situation is being reviewed by the Chiefs of Staff in London. In the meanwhile, I send you a copy of the telegram I have today despatched to Mr. Curtin. I am sure that, having regard to the great contribution the United States are now making to the defence of the Southern Pacific and the still greater efforts we must expect from them, it would be a mistake for Australia and New Zealand to ignore the opinion of the United States military authorities.